Landscape recovery in Naples Metropolitan City: a project for Mount Faito

The anthropogenic transformations of the natural environment extend beyond the urban environment, encompassing a broader footprint and diverse modalities. Sparse urbanization and infrastructural expansion contribute to soil consumption, reaching in Italy a significant intensity of 57.5 km2 in 2020, equivalent to 16 hectares per day (ISPRA, 2020). This phenomenon represents a pivotal aspect in the path of adaptation to Climate Change: while policymakers are addressing the regulating aspects, researchers and designers have the responsibility of working towards the recovery of existing structures, to limit further unjustified consumption of land and resources. This contribution introduces a project focused on the recovery and landscape enhancement of Mount Faito, Naples, Italy. The project area is a mountainous region at approximately 1000 meters above sea level within the Metropolitan City of Naples. It holds significant environmental, historical, and cultural value as suggested by its name, which indicates the presence of beech trees (Fagus sylvatica L.). Its strategic location has made it an exceptional mountain retreat close to the city. However, following intense tourist development between 1850 and 1980s, the area is currently experiencing a period of decline and abandonment. This situation prompts reflection on the need to reconsider the relationship between the city and its natural context, and human responsibility in leaving behind disused structures. Specifically, the proposed design involves the restoration of a sports facility and three abandoned historical buildings nearby (a farmhouse, a dairy, and a horse stable). The objective is to recreate a coherent and interconnected landscape system, with particular emphasis on existing structure recovery, fostering education on nature awareness, expanding accessibility to a diverse audience, and employing sustainable materials. Active and sustainable mobility are promoted as well, with the enhancement of trekking and bike paths and thanks to the existing connection with a cable car. The value of the proposal lies primarily in redirecting attention to a place with high environmental qualities in close proximity to a city densely populated and lacking in green areas like Naples. The area already has the potential to offer significant Ecosystem Services to the surrounding urban areas, including recreational opportunities that have historically characterized the region's history and development. The project aims to restore a balance between the natural qualities of the location and human presence, guided by a new awareness of its ecosystemic value. The project was developed within the 9th edition of the design award "Premio Convivialità Urbana" promoted by the association Napoli Creativa, securing the 3rd place.