Monumental Complex of the Eremo del Sasso
Monumental Complex of the Eremo del Sasso
Historical Context and Cultural Significance of the Complex
The Monumental Complex of the Eremo del Sasso, located on the border between the Marche and Umbria regions, is a historic architectural landmark dating back to the 10th century. The site holds a central role in Franciscan history, as it was the first convent in the Marche region to host Saint Francis in 1210. Abandoned in 1866 and reoccupied by the friars in 1966, the complex suffered severe damage during the 1997 seismic events.
The Eremo del Sasso between Franciscan History and the Territory
The Eremo’s location within a highly valuable natural landscape between two historically connected regions enhances its symbolic and cultural importance. The presence of Saint Francis and the role played by the complex during the early spread of the Franciscan Order in central Italy make the site a key reference point for the historical and spiritual identity of the area.
Adaptive Reuse and Public Functions of a Cultural Heritage Site
Today, the Eremo del Sasso is recognized as a Cultural Heritage asset of significant historical and architectural value, shaped over time by a process of adaptive reuse aimed at collective and public use. The complex currently includes two guesthouses, office spaces, a restaurant, a historic library, an auditorium, and several multipurpose halls, functioning as a cultural and social hub open to the community.
Architectural Restoration and Structural Consolidation Works
The restoration works addressed multiple technical areas, including extraordinary maintenance and structural consolidation of existing masonry buildings, as well as the restoration of decorative elements. Particular attention was given to the stabilization of the rocky outcrop on which the complex is built, a critical geological and structural component for the long-term safety of the site.
Seismic Retrofitting and Post-Earthquake Reconstruction
The intervention also included the reconstruction of buildings that collapsed following the 1997 earthquake, along with the resolution of static and seismic interactions between adjacent buildings and between historic structures and newly constructed volumes. The project further involved the vertical extension of the existing refectory and the construction of a new bell tower, ensuring structural compatibility and respect for the architectural character of the complex.
Return to Public Use and Heritage Enhancement
Through this comprehensive program of architectural restoration and seismic upgrading, the Eremo del Sasso has been returned to public use, safeguarding its cultural identity while preserving the historical, architectural, and landscape value that defines the site. The intervention achieves a balanced integration of heritage conservation, structural safety, and renewed public accessibility.
PLACE
Località Valleremita, Fabriano (AN)
CLIENT
Località Valleremita (AN)
WORK PERIOD
2010 / 2012
ACTIVITY
Architectural Design
Restoration and Consolidation
Structural Design
TYPOLOGY
Restoration of Listed Cultural Heritage
INTENDED USE
Religious
WORK AMOUNT
€ 2.651.353,00
WORKING GROUP
CPL Concordia Soc. Coop.
Gurrieri Associati Studio di Architettura
Ing. Uguccioni & Associati E.H.E. S.r.l.
Studio Paci Progettazioni
Studio Tecnico Ing. Pietro Paci
