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The XVII century is considered as the most important period for the formation of the first structured coastal protection of the Gulf of La Spezia. Famous coeval events, having Genoa’s Republic involved in a state of confusion within European powers, lead to a significant reinforcement of the defence of the territory. The new structures, heading to the existing fortress of Santa Maria and forming a precise layout of the coastal towers along the western side of the gulf, were capable of observing and contrasting all types of naval attacks. Today this system appears mostly dilapidated: part of it was adapted for the construction of a new arsenal during the nineteenth century, while some buildings were wiped out by the urban expansion. In the municipality of Porto Venere, the only surviving tower from the XVII century is “Torre Scola”, which is recognized as an outstanding element within the local landscape, and since 1997 included in the UNESCO’s site of “Porto Venere, Cinque Terre and the islands”. The aim of this paper is thus to contribute to the knowledge of this heritage almost completely erased, but which remains as evidence of the first stage of militarization of La Spezia’s Gulf.

[EN] This study reports the results of investigations on conservation conditions of an ancient tower, called Torre del Pozzo, located in the S-W coast of Sardinia, restored about ten years ago. The tower suffers from serious problems related to vulnerability of building materials, particularly limestone and sandstones and aerial lime mortar with poor physical-mechanical properties. Over the centuries the materials were subjected to aggressive actions (wind corrasion and salt crystallization) causing an intense erosion of the walls with consequent partial collapse of the structure. About ten years ago a restoration involved the mortars and only the replacement and integration of ashlars deteriorated. After about 10 years from this intervention, some inspections have been carried out in order to assess the effectiveness of the intervention and the state of preservation of the tower. This paper focuses on analyses and tests carried out to assess condition and durability of the repair mortars.

[EN] The historical and artistic value of Coastal Towers justifies the recovery of these emblematic artifacts. For the achievement of this objective we propose a methodological approach including: i) architectural relief also by 3D laser scanner and collection of historical data; ii) macroscopic semi-quantitative evaluation of the decay, iii) application of diagnostic quantitative chemical-physical-mechanical methodologies, to assess the decay intensity, and define the criticalities for planning the restoration. The i step allows the graphic rendering of the building showing the geometry and the relationships between the parties. The ii step allows a preliminary understanding of the building materials, macroscopic alteration forms, monument features, acquisition of information about potential causes and decay mechanisms. During the iii step, sampling of building materials is planned. Laboratory analyses, to determine the soluble salts, crystalline phases, porosity as well as micro-textural features of the materials, are carried out by the application of suitable techniques.