The Franchi Stadium in Florence is in danger
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This work, created by Pier Luigi Nervi between 1929 and 1932, is among the most important of the
Italian architectural heritage. The Franchi stadium stands out for the unprecedented role
assumed by the structure which, without additional elements, becomes architecture. Thus a new
way of seeing and conceiving forms was inaugurated, using technologies and construction methods
that were new for the time. It is a classic work when considered in relation to many imitations
that re-proposed and reinterpreted its particular, essential beauty.
Unfortunately, this admirable structure is at risk of being literally torn to pieces due to an
amendment included in the Simplification Decree: art. 55-bis of Legislative Decree no. 76/2020.
This has nullified the effectiveness of the Code of Cultural Heritage and Landscape which is
linked to one of the most important principles of the Italian Constitution, Article 9 . Aside
from the broad applicability that every law should have, which the amendment, so specifically
targeted, fails to maintain, its approach reveals a fragmented vision of the Italian
architectural heritage, almost as if it were dictated by particular interests.
The appropriate Ministry is solely entrusted with the identification of some "specific
structural, architectural or visual elements of which conservation or reproduction is strictly
necessary for testimonial purposes, even in shapes and sizes other than the original" with
"methods and forms of conservation, also detached from the new sports facility ". This implies
the possibility of large-scale interventions and to irreversible changes, including the complete
demolition of a sports facility because of the priority given to its usability over the
protection of its cultural relevance.
The amendment even contemplates the ability to demolish a building already declared of cultural
interest if parts would be rebuilt in other places and in "different dimensions". This violates
all national and international charters and conventions. It is contrary to the very concept of
protection, which Italy has always championed. In this way, fragmentation affects the rules and
the works submitted to them in the same way.
Ugo Carughi
Past President Do.co.mo.mo Italia
Member of the ICOMOS Italian National Council