Reuse strategies and conservation practices for the fortified architecture. An example from the Liguria region: Finale and its fortresses.

The fortresses of Finale Ligure still looming on its hills, witnesses of the long-lasting story of the Marquisate of Finale. These fortresses were built in different historical periods and geographical places. After one century of Spanish domination, the Marquisate of Finale became part of the Republic of Genoa and the fortresses were destroyed, abandoned or re-used for different purposes. Although in the last thirty years the municipality of Finale Ligure has started projects for revitalizing this Built Heritage, citizens don’t feel them as a real part of their cultural background. Finale is one of the main tourist destinations in Liguria region, not only for its seaside, but also for its natural and Cultural Heritage – the old town is recognized as one of the most interesting medieval towns in Italy (Borghi più belli d’Italia). The reuse of these fortresses, given the tourism-oriented policies of the city, is a matter of great interest and it can not be faced through simplistic approaches that do not respect the local cultural identity. This paper focuses on some of the recent enhancement of Finale Ligure Fortified Heritage, highlighting both strengthens and threats of the reuse strategies.