Reinhabiting the mountain inner area of the Madonie (Sicily). The rehabilitation and adaptive reuse of a Hoffmann kiln in Petralia Soprana into an artist’s studio

Abstract

Industrial archaeology represents a strategic opportunity for the conversion of historical heritage and the regeneration of territories facing demographic and economic crises, such as the inner areas of the Madonie, in Sicily. In particular, the Hoffman kiln ‘Arena,’ located in Trinità, a district of Petralia Soprana, serves as an emblematic example of how a disused industrial building can be transformed into a cultural and creative center. A central aspect of the project is the use of materials and technological solutions compatible with the existing structure that preserve the identity of the place and define a replicable model of intervention. The adaptive reuse of the building, combined with the use of traditional techniques, ensures continuity with the past and long-term sustainability of the area. The expected outcomes include the creation of an artist’s atelier capable of attracting new people, residents and visitors, stimulating the local economy, and triggering virtuous processes of rural regeneration. The Arena kiln thus becomes a symbol of rebirth for the Madonie, indicating a possible path for repopulation and the enhancement of historical heritage through a balance between innovation and tradition