Comparative data at the conclusion of the conservation restoration works of the civic walls in Piazza Fiera (Trento)

• Anna Bruschetti ^[1] ; Monica Endrizzi ; Giorgia Gentilini ; Elena Milesi ^[2]
  1. [1] Comune di Trento, Trento, Italia
  2. [2] Effeffe Restauri srl, Borgo Chiese (Trento)
• Localización: FORTMED 2026. Defensive Architecture of the Mediterranean Vol XXII / coord. por Michele Russo, Marta Acierno, 2026, ISBN 978-84-1396-411-9, págs. 333-340
• Idioma: inglés
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• Resumen

  • The contribution compares the data collected during the restoration work carried out in the two-year period 2023-2024 on the mediaeval walls of piazza Fiera in Trento, in particular following the work on the north front. The aim of the intervention was the conservation of the wall structure. Preliminary activities included photographic and graphic documentation combined with diagnostic investigations (26 petrographic, 4 microbiological, 12 for mass spectrometry dating, ultrasonic, and endoscopic) aimed at characterising the materials, identifying deterioration and the effectiveness of selected treatments. The curtain wall made of ammonitic limestone with a total surface area of 2,670 square metres has 33 battlements. The deterioration found was attributable to weeds, erosion of the constituent materials, and the presence of inadequate mortars. The biological disinfestation was carried out with systemic herbicides to remove higher plants and biomass, hydro-washing to remove coherent deposits, and eco-sanding with Garnet to lighten black crusts and limestone concretions, which was also effective in cleaning up the different grouts. The mortars were mapped and classified into three categories: original, intermediate, superficial and treated according to three levels of intervention. A consolidation was implemented with injections of hydraulic grout and for the historical mortars with repeated applications of colloidal nanosilica. The joints were repointed with a combination of air and hydraulic lime after 30 samplings for the selection of aggregates, processed in the setting phase by brushing. On the battlements and the patrol walkway the ashlars were removed and repositioned, and the floor levels were reconstructed with optimised drainage and the laying of sealing mortar. The staircase was reinforced with plates, metal ties, and anti-fall nets. A protective coating was applied on the entire surface to prevent differential decay. The restoration carried out using modern sustainable techniques has enhanced the monument as an urban historical heritage.