Publications
Digital technology and risk management in rural tourism: Insights from Langhe, Roero and Monferrato
Rural tourism in UNESCO-listed regions can enhance competitiveness and sustainability through strategic digitalization aligned with risk management. A study on Italy's Langhe, Roero, and Monferrato vineyard landscapes reveals how local actors leverage digital tools—such as data analytics, online marketing, and platform-based collaboration—to mitigate environmental, market, and climate-related risks while preserving cultural identity. The research identifies key risk categories and demonstrates that digital innovation, when integrated with resilience strategies, fosters long-term adaptability in rural destinations. This approach offers practical insights for policymakers and destination managers to navigate post-pandemic challenges and ensure sustainable development.
Implementing supportive policies to promote nature-based solutions at regional level through collaboration with winegrowers
A pioneering governmental application of nature-based solutions (NbS) in the UNESCO-listed Vineyard Landscape of Piedmont, Italy, demonstrates their potential to enhance vineyard ecosystems while supporting sustainable wine production. The study highlights 12 agroecology-based practices integrated into vineyards within Europe’s Nature 2000 protected areas, showcasing positive ecological impacts through a participatory approach involving local winegrowers and regional authorities. Case studies from the Monte Fenera Regional Park reveal that collaborative policies, such as the Ecologic Incidence Assessment process, can effectively promote NbS adoption, fostering biodiversity conservation while maintaining traditional viticultural practices like Nebbiolo production in Boca. This model underscores the feasibility of integrating environmental goals with economic and cultural heritage objectives at a regional scale.
“It’s Years of Walking, of Reading the Forest”: White Truffle Hunters’ Perception of Socio-Ecological Change in Langhe and Roero, NW Italy
White truffle hunting in the Piedmontese landscapes of Italy is more than a foraging practice—it embodies deep, intergenerational relationships with forests, shaped by sensory attunement and emotional connections. A study reveals that socio-ecological transformations, such as land privatization, vineyard expansion, and monocultural plantations, are disrupting these traditional practices, leading to ecological estrangement, dispossession, and the erosion of knowledge transmission. Hunters report a loss of sensory orientation, access to ancestral lands, and a breakdown in the human–dog forest relational web, accompanied by grief and identity erosion. These changes threaten not only ecological but also emotional and cultural sustainability, underscoring the need for a broader understanding of sustainability that includes affective and place-based knowledge systems.
Alba, la città delle “cento” torri: una proposta per la valorizzazione delle strutture evidenti e latenti
Alba, Italy, is renowned for its medieval towers, which once symbolized the political and military power of leading families. While often described as the 'city of a hundred towers,' this perception is an overestimation, yet it reflects the significant density of these structures in the city's historic core. A notable aspect of this research is the identification and documentation of both visible and latent tower structures—those integrated into building facades or concealed underground—which are crucial to understanding Alba's architectural heritage. The study proposes strategies for preserving and enhancing these structures, emphasizing their importance within the cultural policies of a city that leads the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Langhe-Roero-Monferrato. By focusing on both evident and latent traces, this work aims to foster greater citizen involvement and sensitivity among tourists, contributing to the sustainable development of Alba's cultural landscape.
Heritage Interpretation and First-Person Narratives
First-person narratives can effectively challenge traditional heritage interpretations and promote gender-inclusive perspectives. A study of the UNESCO World Heritage vineyard landscape of Piedmont, Italy, reveals that women have played an agentic role in shaping the site's identity despite being marginalized in dominant narratives. Through interviews and analysis of Nuto Revelli's work, researchers demonstrate how oral history captures intimate aspects of women's lives, exposing material and symbolic constraints. These narratives can be translated into heritage interpretation practices, fostering critical understanding of gender diversity and advancing progressive social change through dynamic cultural policies.
Literary Tourism and Cultural Sustainability: The Landscape of Beppe Fenoglio in the Langhe, Italy
Literary tourism, particularly through the lens of Beppe Fenoglio's works, emerges as a unique driver for cultural sustainability in the Langhe-Roero and Monferrato region of Piedmont. This niche form of tourism, distinct from the area’s established food-and-wine appeal, offers a deeper connection to local rural life, culture, and Resistance history, fostering new interpretations of the landscape and strengthening collective memory. While limited by sample size, the study identifies 'Fenoglians'—special interest tourists drawn to Fenoglio's narrative—as a promising avenue for tourism diversification. The research employs mixed methods, including documentary analysis, questionnaires, and interviews, revealing how fictional narratives shape tourist perceptions and community heritage preservation. This approach underscores the role of local communities in bridging literary narratives with landscape sustainability.
The evolution of an epidemic: age-period-cohort modelling of mesothelioma in Casale Monferrato, 1990–2021, with projections to 2042
A study projecting the future of mesothelioma incidence in Casale Monferrato, Italyreveals that the epidemic driven by asbestos exposure will decline steadily but persist until mid-century. Using Age-Period-Cohort (APC) models with data from 1990 to 2021, researchers estimated that cases will return to early 1990s levels by 2035 and drop further by 2042, despite the disease's long latency. The analysis highlighted higher environmental exposure risks for women, who accounted for 58% of non-occupational cases compared to 22% in men. Projections used three modeling approaches, all yielding consistent results, underscoring the need for continued surveillance due to the lingering health burden.
Curious Seventeenth-Century Painting of Music-Making in Casale Monferrato
A seventeenth-century painting in the Cathedral of Casale Monferrato, part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site 'Vineyard Landscape of Piedmont: Langhe-Roero and Monferrato,' depicts a unique musical arrangement involving six members of the Confraternità di San Filippo playing viols around an innovative music stand. This stand features six individual bookstands supported by a single central pole, accompanied by two choirboys, a harpsichordist, and a musical director. The painting includes an inscription, 'SI. NOMIO. QUIS. BROMIUS?,' which adds to its historical intrigue.
Excursion voyage au Monferrato 15 - 18 octobre 2024
A detailed excursion through the Monferrato region, part of the UNESCO-listed Vineyard Landscape of Piedmont (Langhe-Roero and Monferrato), reveals its unique geological and cultural significance. The study highlights the interplay between human land use and natural landscapes, emphasizing the region's historical viticulture practices and their impact on the terrain. Researchers employed a multi-disciplinary approach, combining field observations with geographical analysis to document the area's distinct features, including its rolling hills, vineyard terraces, and traditional farming techniques. The findings underscore Monferrato's role as a living laboratory for sustainable agriculture and biodiversity conservation, offering insights into the long-term interactions between human activity and environmental dynamics.
Fish Otoliths from the Upper Oligocene and Lower Miocene of the Monferrato and Turin Hill, Northern Italy
A study of fish otoliths from the late Oligocene to early Miocene strata in northern Italy reveals a rich fossil record, including 68 species-level taxa, 16 of which are newly described. The findings fill a significant stratigraphic gap for the mesopelagic family Myctophidae in Europe, refining their stratigraphic ranges and suggesting potential as biostratigraphic tools. Notably, myctophid species exhibit a wide geographic distribution during the Miocene, mirroring modern patterns. The research compares these assemblages with coeval global records, offering insights into paleobiogeographic dynamics.
Adrift among the vineyards second home owners' perceptions and reactions about climate change in the cultural landscape of the vineyards of Langhe-Roero and Monferrato, Italy
Climate change is reshaping the future of second-home tourism and agricultural practices in the UNESCO-listed vineyard landscapes of Langhe-Roero and Monferrato, Italy. Research reveals that while some owners may abandon their properties due to financial strain from climate-related damages or shifting optimal growing conditions, others could be drawn to the region as temperatures rise in urban areas. Second-home owners are positioned to drive resilience in rural communities by adopting innovative adaptation strategies and challenging traditional norms around land use and agriculture. The study employed in-depth semi-structured interviews to trace potential future scenarios, highlighting the dual threat of economic instability and environmental change while also identifying opportunities for sustainable development.
Environmental perspective of decarbonization actions in the Italian UNESCO site of the Vineyard landscape of Piedmont Region
A potential reduction of greenhouse gas emissions by up to 32.4% can be achieved through the adoption of energy efficiency measures across key economic sectors within the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Piedmont's Vineyard Landscape, according to a new study. The research employs a simplified bottom-up approach, analyzing case studies in residential, accommodation, private transport, and food industry sectors to estimate CO2 savings under varying diffusion scenarios. This demonstrates that targeted decarbonization actions can significantly contribute to mitigating global warming, with the methodology offering a replicable framework for similar contexts. The findings underscore the importance of regional and local databases in assessing emission savings potential.
I ciabòt del sito UNESCO Langhe-Roero e Monferrato: problematiche di conservazione delle architetture rurali fragili quali componenti storico-culturali dei paesaggi vitivinicoli
Eight years after its UNESCO recognition, the Vineyard Landscape of Piedmont: Langhe-Roero and Monferrato has seen limited progress in preserving its fragile rural architecture, particularly the 'ciabòt,' which are critical to the site's historical and cultural identity. Despite updates to planning tools and declarations of notable cultural interest following the 2017 Regional Landscape Plan, conservation efforts remain insufficient to address the challenges of maintaining this heritage. The study evaluates the effectiveness of these measures, highlighting gaps in culturally sustainable development strategies for such landscapes.
La mise en valeur du territoire, au-delà de la candidature à l'UNESCO : éléments de qualité résiduelle.
Research identifies the 'ciabòt,' a traditional Italian rural building, as a potential catalyst for experiential tourism and territorial development. These structures, similar to French 'cabotes,' support agricultural work but have been overlooked in contemporary landscape valorization efforts. The study analyzes two UNESCO World Heritage Sites—Vineyard Landscape of Piedmont (Langhe-Roero and Monferrato) and Climats of Burgundy—to compare territorial dynamics, protection approaches, and development strategies. By focusing on residual quality elements like the ciabòt, the research suggests that integrating these underutilized architectural features into tourism could enhance local identity, economic value, and cultural preservation while fostering sustainable rural development.
The Open Landslide Project (OLP), a New Inventory of Shallow Landslides for Susceptibility Models: The Autumn 2019 Extreme Rainfall Event in the Langhe-Monferrato Region (Northwestern Italy)
A comprehensive inventory of over 3,000 shallow landslides triggered by extreme rainfall in the Langhe-Monferrato region (Northwestern Italy) during autumn 2019 reveals that areas with lower rainfall intensity experienced a higher frequency of landslides compared to regions with peak rainfall. This counterintuitive finding is attributed to the differential response of lithological composition to rainfall, highlighting complex interactions between precipitation patterns and geological factors. The study introduces the Open Landslide Project (OLP), an open-source, multisatellite imagery-based inventory designed for geostatistical analysis and landslide risk management. Validated through rigorous criteria and statistical models—including multivariate correlation and Double Pareto probability density function—the OLP demonstrates its effectiveness in susceptibility modeling via binary logistic regression. This research advances the understanding of landslide dynamics in anthropized climates, offering a valuable tool for future risk assessment.
Turismo culturale in Langhe, Monferrato e Roero: paesaggio, enogastronomia e letteratura in Turistica. Italian Journal of Tourism
Cultural tourism in the UNESCO-listed Vineyard Landscape of Piedmont (Langhe-Roero and Monferrato) is increasingly valued for its multidimensional appeal, yet local perceptions remain static. While residents prioritize landscape-linked experiences—such as food, wine, and heritage—as key attractions, their representations of cultural tourism are traditional and unchanging. The SPOT project, funded by the European Commission (2020–2022), analyzed this disconnect to assess how cultural tourism can serve as a resilience vector for disadvantaged regions post-pandemic. Using a case study approach across 15 European sites—including Piedmont—the research highlights the tension between dynamic global tourism trends and local narratives, suggesting that deeper engagement with landscape-based storytelling could enhance destination promotion.
Assessment of the Terraced Landscapes’ Integrity: A GIS-Based Approach in a Potential GIAHS-FAO Site (Northwest Piedmont, Italy)
A terraced vineyard landscape in Northwest Piedmont, Italy, retains 70.16% of its historical integrity, making it a strong candidate for the GIAHS-FAO program. This assessment, conducted using a GIS-based approach with aerial imagery from 1954–1968 and 2018 data, revealed that vineyard abandonment and the introduction of non-traditional techniques (e.g., espaliers) and new crops (e.g., olive groves) threaten landscape preservation. The study highlights the need for future planning strategies to mitigate these changes while safeguarding the site's cultural and ecological value. This dynamic perspective offers a model for conserving similar agricultural landscapes globally.
Coevolution between Terraced Landscapes and Rural Communities: An Integrated Approach Using Expert-Based Assessment and Evaluation of Winegrowers’ Perceptions (Northwest Piedmont, Italy)
Terraced vineyard landscapes, while historically significant and culturally rich, face threats from abandonment and changing land use practices. A study on the UNESCO-listed Vineyard Landscape of Piedmont (Italy) reveals a strong alignment between expert-identified historical landscape elements—such as traditional stone-column-supported pergolas—and the perceptions of winegrowers, who overwhelmingly favor their conservation. The research employs an innovative integrated approach combining expert-based assessments with surveys of 49 winegrowers to analyze coevolutionary dynamics between terraced landscapes and rural communities. Findings indicate that while some traditional practices persist, modern techniques like espaliers and alternative land uses (e.g., olive groves) are emerging. This dual-methodology approach underscores the resilience and adaptive capacity of these landscapes, offering a replicable model for dynamic conservation strategies in similar contexts.
Mitigating visual impacts of built structures: the contribution of mayors in the collaborative managing of a UNESCO cultural landscape
A study identifies effective mitigation strategies for visual impacts of built structures on the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Vineyard Landscape of Piedmont: Langhe-Roero and Monferrato. Through qualitative research involving interviews and focus groups with mayors from ten municipalities, conducted in 2015 and 2020, the study highlights tools and policies that can enhance landscape planning and heritage management. These strategies aim to preserve the authenticity of the cultural landscape while supporting its long-term conservation. The research also emphasizes the role of mayors as key stakeholders in managing visual impacts and promoting sustainable scenarios for the landscape.
Planning sustainable tourism in UNESCO wine regions: the case of the Langhe-Roero and Monferrato area
Sustainable tourism planning in UNESCO World Heritage Sites requires coordinated governance to balance development with the preservation of cultural and natural assets. The study on the Vineyard Landscape of Piedmont (Langhe-Roero and Monferrato) reveals that while tourism can drive local growth, it risks overburdening infrastructure and degrading the very landscapes it aims to protect. To mitigate these challenges, the research advocates for an integrated multi-level governance framework that harmonizes existing planning tools, ensuring long-term sustainability without compromising heritage integrity.
Uno sguardo geografico sulla world heritage list: la territorializzazione della candidatura
A novel approach to studying UNESCO World Heritage Site (WHS) nominations reveals that the process involves a re-territorialization of local landscapes, driven by coalitions of territorial actors and the creation of new heritage representations. This study, focusing on the Piedmont vineyard landscapes in Italy, challenges traditional assessments by examining how global WHS discourses reshape local territories through new rules, policies, and identities. Unlike prior research that struggles to isolate the 'UNESCO effect,' this work highlights the dynamic interplay between international recognition and localized territorial transformations.
Group Analytic Hierarchy Process Sorting II Method: An Application to Evaluate the Economic Value of a Wine Region Landscape
A novel method, the Group Analytic Hierarchy Process Sorting II (GAHPSort II), has been developed to evaluate the economic attractiveness of landscapes within UNESCO World Heritage Sites. This approach optimizes multi-stakeholder evaluations by reducing the number of comparisons needed for large datasets, making it a valuable tool for landscape planning and management. Applied to the Vineyard Landscape of Piedmont in Italy, GAHPSort II combines economic indicators with GIS methods to support decision-making processes. The method aims to aid policymakers in understanding complex cases and defining effective strategies for sustainable landscape management, particularly in the context of climate change.
Rethinking Terraces and Dry-Stone Walls in the Alps for Sustainable Development: The Case of Mombarone/Alto Eporediese in Piedmont Region (Italy)
Agricultural terraces and dry-stone walls in the Mombarone/Alto Eporediese region of Piedmont, Italy, are being repurposed as key elements for sustainable development. These terraced landscapes, once partially abandoned, now serve as a unique environmental heritage that fosters a sense of place and supports innovative solutions within a green, soft, and inclusive economy. Local institutions and stakeholders engaged in projects like the Strategic Plan 'Dalla Dora al Mombarone' and the European Interreg Alcotra project 'Vi.A.- Route of Alpine Vineyards' have played a pivotal role in this transformation. By leveraging social and territorial science, these initiatives aim to resemantize terraces as local resources, contributing to sustainable development while transcending traditional practices.
Social Representations about Cultural Tourism in the Time of COVID-19: A Case Study of Langhe, Monferrato and Roero (Italy)
During the COVID-19 pandemic, cultural tourism in Italy's UNESCO-listed Piedmont vineyard landscapes—Langhe-Roero and Monferrato—experienced a significant decline in activities and travel. A study found that residents viewed local cultural tourism as static, while tourists were primarily drawn to gastronomic and wine experiences. The research, part of an international collaborative project, surveyed residents, tourists, and tourism professionals, revealing widespread disruptions across all groups due to the pandemic's impact on travel and cultural engagement.
Territori resilienti e paesaggi digitali: il turismo culturale nelle Langhe, Roero e Monferrato
Cultural tourism emerges as a key driver of resilience for the UNESCO-listed vineyard landscapes of Piedmont, Italy. The study highlights how digital promotion strategies can amplify the region's tangible and intangible heritage, including its renowned food and wine traditions. Conducted in 2020, this research explores how digital reputation influences territorial resilience, offering insights into leveraging cultural assets for sustainable development. By analyzing perceptions of cultural tourism, the findings underscore its potential to revitalize rural landscapes while preserving their unique identity.
Cultural landscape and living heritage in the Vineyard Landscape of Langhe-Roero and Monferrato
Power imbalances between experts and non-experts shape heritage narratives, often excluding diverse perspectives from the preservation of cultural landscapes. This study highlights how legal frameworks like UNESCO’s World Heritage Convention and the European Landscape Convention, alongside local stakeholder views, can diverge in their articulation of heritage values. Using Italy’s UNESCO-listed vineyard landscape of Langhe-Roero and Monferrato as a case study, researchers found that participatory methodologies—such as consultation and negotiation—could foster more inclusive heritage management by empowering stakeholders to redefine preservation practices. The research involved documentary analysis and interviews with professionals, locals, and women wine producers, revealing that engaging multiple voices could bridge gaps in heritage interpretation while acknowledging inherent conflicts.
Cultural landscapes: exploring local people's understanding of cultural practices as “heritage”
World Heritage designation for cultural landscapes, such as the vineyard landscape of Piedmont (Italy), risks reinforcing top-down heritage narratives that prioritize 'outstanding universal values' while marginalizing local voices and diverse practices. This study reveals that official recognition often excludes other meaningful values, memories, and community perspectives, thereby limiting inclusive engagement in decision-making processes. The research employs qualitative analysis to explore how residents perceive and articulate heritage significance, challenging the assumption that UNESCO criteria capture the full spectrum of landscape meanings. It highlights a disconnect between global heritage standards and local lived experiences, raising questions about whose narratives shape cultural identity and whether communities desire active participation in shaping their heritage's future.
Possible Sustainable Measures to Recover the Tourism Sector after the COVID-19 Crisis
The tourism sector, already resilient but facing unprecedented challenges due to COVID-19, can recover through sustainable measures that leverage global best practices and stakeholder collaboration. This study identifies replicable strategies for reviving tourist destinations like Lake Como, the Vineyard Landscape of Piedmont (Langhe-Roero and Monferrato), and the Amalfi Coast by analyzing historical trends, local governance, and stakeholder insights. It proposes a multidisciplinary approach integrating planning, business management, and tourism governance to mitigate long-term economic damage. Key recommendations include rapid academic and public sector intervention, safe travel protocols, and cross-sector partnerships to restore industry growth.
Prevalence of Flavescence Dorée Phytoplasma-Infected Scaphoideus titanus in Different Vineyard Agroecosystems of Northwestern Italy
Research reveals that the prevalence of Flavescence dorée (FD) phytoplasma-infected Scaphoideus titanus, a key vector in vineyard ecosystems, is significantly higher outside cultivated vineyards (up to 48%) compared to inside them (up to 34%). The study, conducted across seven diverse sites in Piedmont, Italy, also found that the abundance of these vectors decreases sharply from late July onwards, particularly within vineyard boundaries. Analyzing yellow sticky trap collections over two months in 2015, scientists correlated vector population levels, infection rates, and disease prevalence in both cultivated and wild Vitis plants with landscape features. The findings suggest that wild compartments play a critical role in the epidemiology of FD, with infection rates increasing throughout the season in both environments.
UNESCO’s tangible and intangible cultural heritage: Sustainable development perspectives
A significant finding of this study is the identification and development of the relationship between tangible and intangible heritage as essential, interconnected resources for sustainable development. The research examines two illustrative UNESCO application paths: the recognition of The Vineyard Landscape of Piedmont: Langhe-Roero and Monferrato as a Cultural Landscape of World Heritage under the 1972 Convention, and the inscription of The Celebration of Celestinian Forgiveness in the Representative List of Intangible Cultural Heritage under the 2003 Convention. By analyzing these case studies, the study advances an interdisciplinary reflection on safeguarding, enhancing, and increasing accessibility of cultural heritage. It derives insights into living within organic landscapes, collective identities, inclusive places, sociability, communicative restitution, participatory management, and integrated sustainability.
Women’s representation and participation in UNESCO heritage discourse
Research reveals that women remain marginalized in the discourse and decision-making processes surrounding UNESCO World Heritage Sites, despite gender equality being a priority for inclusive development. Focusing on the Vineyard Landscape of Piedmont (Italy), the study finds that dominant heritage narratives are often male-driven, which may hinder women's participation. Through interviews with local female wine producers, it compares official heritage discourses with women's perceptions of their role in shaping identity and heritage. The findings suggest that lack of representation influences women's willingness to engage in managing heritage that does not reflect their values, raising questions about the desired forms of participation for greater inclusivity.
A PROMETHEE-based approach for designing the reuse of an abandoned railway in the Monferrato Region, Italy
A multi-criteria decision-making approach using the PROMETHEE method has been successfully applied to design the reuse of an abandoned railway in Italy's Monferrato Region, offering a strategic solution for economic revitalization and cultural valorization. This study demonstrates how expert-driven evaluation can prioritize optimal functions for station buildings along the line, balancing local resource utilization with heritage preservation. The approach combines quantitative analysis with qualitative insights from a panel of experts, providing a scalable framework for similar heritage site redevelopment projects. By addressing both practical and cultural dimensions, this method could serve as a model for sustainable infrastructure planning in UNESCO-recognized landscapes.
Between Change and Stability: Local Development, Tourist Offer and Local Values in Monferrato, Italy
Tourism development in UNESCO-listed Monferrato, Italy, is shaped by a complex interplay of local values that prioritize social stability over rapid economic growth. An ethnographic study reveals how rural communities balance the need to transform their landscape into a viable tourist destination with the preservation of traditional ways of life. The research highlights conflicting expectations, where local hierarchies of values influence the design and offerings of tourism services, ultimately guiding the pace and nature of development in these internal areas.
Effects of Tractor Passes on Hydrological and Soil Erosion Processes in Tilled and Grassed Vineyards
Grass-covered vineyard inter-rows significantly reduce runoff and soil loss compared to tilled inter-rows, especially during wetter conditions. A two-year study in the Alto Monferrato region of Piedmont, Italy, found that grass cover reduced runoff by 76% and soil loss by 83% relative to tillage, highlighting its effectiveness in mitigating erosion. The research also demonstrated that tractor traffic increases soil compaction, particularly in tilled vineyards, which negatively impacts hydrological properties such as infiltration rates and bulk density. These findings underscore the importance of limiting machine traffic to preserve soil structure and reduce erosion risks, offering practical insights for sustainable vineyard management.
Environmental Health Education for Asbestos-Contaminated Communities in Italy: The Casale Monferrato Case Study
A groundbreaking environmental health education initiative in Casale Monferrato, Italy, demonstrates the power of youth engagement in mitigating asbestos-related risks. Over a four-year period, 185 high school students and teachers trained through the Asbestos Classroom reached 3,241 visitors, showcasing the effectiveness of peer education in fostering collective awareness about environmental hazards. This participatory approach, which involved students in curriculum development and knowledge dissemination, significantly contributed to reducing asbestos exposure risks in a community heavily impacted by industrial contamination. The study underscores the potential for such initiatives to be replicated globally, offering a scalable model for addressing asbestos-related diseases in both banned and non-prohibited regions.
Experimental dynamic behavior of an of an historical thin shell structure in concrete: The Paraboloide of Casale Monferrato
A pioneering concrete thin-shell structure, the Paraboloide of Casale Monferrato, demonstrates remarkable resilience after nearly a century. Built in 1922 as Italy's first clinker warehouse, its parabolic roofing system has withstood time and industrial use. Recent dynamic testing reveals its structural integrity, providing critical data for preservation efforts. The study employed mechanical and dynamic tests to assess the building's current state, offering insights that will guide restoration strategies for this historic structure. This research serves as a foundation for conserving similar architectural marvels, ensuring their longevity while honoring their industrial heritage.
From the Elaboration Process of Point Cloud to Information Systems Both for Planning and Design Management of Cultural Heritage
A novel approach to managing cultural heritage, particularly in UNESCO World Heritage Sites like the Vineyard Landscape of Piedmont (Langhe-Roero and Monferrato), demonstrates how point cloud data can be transformed into actionable information for preservation and resilience planning. The study proposes a digital framework that integrates historical building models with geographic information systems (GIS) through processes such as Scan-to-BIM-to-GIS or Scan-to-GIS-to-BIM, optimizing time and cost efficiency. By leveraging the H-BIM approach—focused on district-level management—the research highlights the critical role of data acquisition and archiving in safeguarding undefended heritage. The case study, centered on Serralunga d’Alba, offers a scalable solution for enhancing resilience against natural events and poor preservation practices, bridging gaps between geometric modeling, topological analysis, and historical documentation.
Landscape Economic Attractiveness: An Integrated Methodology for Exploring the Rural Landscapes in Piedmont (Italy)
Researchers developed an integrated methodology to measure the economic attractiveness of rural landscapes, specifically applying it to two UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Piedmont, Italy: the Moraine Amphitheatre of Ivrea and the vineyard landscape of Langhe-Roero and Monferrato. The study introduced a synthetic index—Landscape Economic Attractiveness Index (LEAI)—derived from a system of landscape indicators, which was then integrated into a dynamic model to assess its role in human mobility across multi-pole systems. This approach provides actionable insights for policymakers aiming to guide landscape and territorial transformations while preserving cultural and environmental integrity. The methodology offers a framework for evaluating rural landscapes' economic potential, supporting sustainable development strategies.
Production innovation and environmental protection in the management of rural landscapes: the UNESCO vineyard landscapes of Langhe-Roero and Monferrato
The UNESCO-listed vineyard landscapes of Langhe-Roero and Monferrato in Piedmont, Italy, exemplify how sustainable agricultural practices can preserve environmental integrity while enhancing food quality. Research demonstrates that careful land management—balancing production, biodiversity conservation, and landscape preservation—strengthens the historical identity and ecological resilience of rural territories. Unlike conventional agriculture, which prioritizes yield, this model integrates hydrogeological stability, cultural heritage, and formal quality into farming strategies. Findings highlight that farmers play a pivotal role in maintaining high-quality landscapes by avoiding unnecessary compromises, thereby ensuring long-term sustainability. This case study offers actionable insights for global UNESCO sites seeking to align economic development with environmental stewardship.
The landscape management in the territory of the Vineyard Landscapes of Piedmont
The Vineyard Landscape of Piedmont, recognized as the 50th Italian UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2014, stands out for its ecological and economic significance. This study highlights how landscape richness in Mediterranean regions enhances well-being and supports sustainable development, yet rapid transformations threaten these values. Focusing on Langhe-Roero and Monferrato, the research examines landscape management strategies that balance aesthetic appeal, ecological integrity, and economic growth. By analyzing this emblematic case, the study underscores the importance of preserving landscapes to maintain competitiveness and employment while ensuring long-term sustainability.
The virtuous integration of Geoscience research and educational projects: examples from the Piemonte region
Involving students in field research activities significantly enhances their disciplinary knowledge, soft skills, and awareness of the relevance of geosciences in daily life. This was demonstrated through a project integrating geoscience research with educational initiatives in the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Piedmont's vineyard landscapes (Langhe-Roero and Monferrato) and the Sesia Val Grande Global Geopark. The study, conducted as part of Italy's MIUR Plan for enhancing scientific degrees (PLS 2015-17), employed inquiry-based learning, cooperative activities, and multimedia tools to engage upper secondary education students and teachers. Satisfaction questionnaires confirmed that this approach effectively improved student engagement and understanding, highlighting the potential of integrating research with outreach in geoscience education.
Viticulture and Landscape in the Italian Northwestern Alpine Region
Heroic viticulture, characterized by vineyards at altitudes over 500 meters and slopes greater than 30%, is a defining cultural element of wine-growing systems in the Italian regions of Valle d’Aosta, Piedmont, and Liguria. This study reveals that such high-altitude and steep-slope viticulture plays a fundamental role in local winemaking, particularly in Valle d’Aosta and Liguria, where mountainous terrain dominates regional landscapes. The research employed Grounded Theory, integrating diverse data sources—including direct observations—to analyze the diversity of wine landscapes across these regions. While Piedmont is larger, all three regions share deep geographical and historical ties, contributing to their unique yet interconnected viticultural identities.
Stone Voices: Geomaterialism in the Ecohumanities
Recent scholarship in the 'geohumanities' or 'geomaterialist ecocriticism' reveals that stones and geological formations are not inert but instead act as receptive and emotive measures of human entanglements with more-than-human entities. This perspective challenges traditional views of stone as 'senseless things,' highlighting its physical dynamism and emotional potency. The research employs a narrative approach, analyzing how humans respond to stone through 'stories of stone'—ranging from Neolithic cave paintings to modern anthropic signatures—and explores the ecological paradoxes of the present era. Key works by Jeffrey Cohen and Serenella Iovino juxtapose cultural heritage, such as Piedmont's wines, with industrial 'slow violence,' like asbestos exposure, illustrating human interactions with nonhuman landscapes. This approach aligns with strategic anthropomorphism, seeking to entangle human experience with geological formations.
Un Approccio Integrato per la Misurazione dei Valori e Delle Pressioni dei Paesaggi Vitivinicoli del Piemonte
An integrated evaluation methodology has been developed to measure the values and pressures within the UNESCO-listed Vineyard Landscape of Piedmont, specifically the Langhe-Roero and Monferrato regions. This approach assesses both the economic value of the territory and the pressures exerted on its components through a system of indicators. The methodology provides a reliable tool for decision-making in defining territorial transformation scenarios, offering a comprehensive framework to balance economic and environmental considerations in this culturally significant landscape.
Saccharomyces Cerevisiae Biodiversity in Monferrato, North West Italy, and Selection of Indigenous Starter Cultures for Barbera Wine Production
Research reveals significant biodiversity among Saccharomyces cerevisiae strains in Monferrato, Italy, with notable variations in residual sugars (148.64 to 3.44 g/l) and acetic acid production (0.20 to 0.60 g/l), impacting wine characteristics. The study analyzed 636 isolates from Barbera grapes using interdelta element PCR, identifying 96 distinct strains through physiological tests and fermentation experiments. These findings highlight the potential of indigenous starter cultures to enhance or define wines with strong regional ties, offering a resource for targeted winemaking practices.
Turismo enogastronomico nella Langa del Barolo: indagine presso i ristoratori
Restaurant managers in the Langa del Barolo region, part of Italy's UNESCO-listed Vineyard Landscape of Piedmont, highly value and accept initiatives aimed at promoting wine and food tourism. The study found that traditional word-of-mouth recommendations remain influential but are increasingly supplemented by digital interactions via social media, which significantly expands global reach and engagement with tourists. This highlights the dual importance of local authenticity and modern digital tools in shaping enogastronomic tourism experiences.
Acquisition of Flavescence Dorée Phytoplasma by Scaphoideus titanus Ball from Different Grapevine Varieties
Flavescence dorée (FD) poses a significant threat to wine production in the UNESCO-listed vineyard landscapes of Piedmont, Italy. Research reveals that the efficiency with which the vector insect Scaphoideus titanus acquires FD phytoplasma varies markedly depending on grapevine variety and phytoplasma load, rather than simply FDP levels alone. While varieties like Arneis support lower phytoplasma multiplication, they remain highly susceptible to vector acquisition, suggesting disease spread is more closely tied to vector behavior than plant infection severity. The study employed laboratory-reared S. titanus nymphs caged on infected plants to quantify acquisition efficiency across six local cultivars, demonstrating a complex interplay between grapevine variety and phytoplasma dynamics that could inform FD management strategies in vulnerable wine regions.
Chapter One. The Success of Italian Winemakers in California and the “Pavesian Myth”
The success of Italian winemakers in California, particularly those from Piedmont's Langhe-Roero and Monferrato regions, is not solely due to essentialist or deterministic factors but rather the result of shared ecological and climatic similarities between California and Italy. This study challenges traditional narratives by examining the achievements of three prominent California wineries—Italian Swiss Colony, Italian Vineyard Company, and E. and J. Gallo Winery—founded by Piedmontese immigrants. It highlights how the transplantation of Old World wine culture and expertise to the U.S. West Coast was facilitated by analogous landscapes, ecologies, and climates, rather than cultural stereotypes or myths, such as the 'Piedmont on the Pacific' referenced in Cesare Pavese's works. The research approach involves a critical analysis of historical, ecological, and cultural factors contributing to this transatlantic transfer of winemaking knowledge.
Landscape Economic Value for Territorial Scenarios of Change: An Application for the Unesco Site of Langhe, Roero and Monferrato
A synthetic index of Landscape Economic Value (LEV) has been developed to measure the attractiveness of the UNESCO-listed Vineyard Landscape of Piedmont, including Langhe-Roero and Monferrato. This innovative approach integrates multiple economic indicators to assess how landscape value influences territorial development and human movement within clusters of municipalities. The LEV acts as a dynamic attractor factor in transformation models, offering new insights for policymakers to shape future territorial scenarios. The study provides an empirical framework for evaluating the economic impact of landscapes on regional growth, bridging the gap between scientific assessment and practical decision-making.
The changing ethnoecological cobweb of white truffle (Tuber magnatum Pico) gatherers in South Piedmont, NW Italy
A sophisticated ethnoecological knowledge among white truffle gatherers (Tuber magnatum Pico), or 'trifulau,' in South Piedmont, Italy, highlights a complex and intimate relationship between humans, dogs, and the environment that has sustained truffle hunting for centuries. This traditional environmental knowledge (TEK) is now under threat due to climate change—marked by hotter, drier summers—and socio-economic shifts, including the expansion of viticulture. The study, based on in-depth interviews with 34 gatherers between 2010 and 2014, reveals that truffle hunting success depends heavily on the synergy between gatherers' ecological perceptions, their dogs' training, and specific environmental conditions. The research underscores the urgent need for sustainable gastronomy initiatives to preserve this cultural heritage while raising awareness about the interdependence of locals, truffles, and their natural habitat.
The ground beetles (Coleoptera, Carabidae) of “Bosco Palli”, a relict Turkey oak wood in Basso Monferrato (Piedmont, Italy)
A study of the ground beetle (Carabidae) fauna in 'Bosco Palli', a relict Turkey oak wood in Basso Monferrato, Italy, revealed a depauperate and specialized community. Only 25 species were recorded, with just 11 confined to central core areas and 23 found in peripheral ecotone zones. Notably, while few strict forest species were present, Carabus italicus thrived in a moist, swampy peripheral section, suggesting resilience in fragmented habitats. The study attributes this limited diversity to the wood's small size, isolation within an agricultural landscape, and historical coppicing practices, highlighting the vulnerability of such relict ecosystems.
Para-occupational exposures to asbestos: lessons learned from Casale Monferrato, Italy
A twofold increased risk of pleural mesothelioma was linked to para-occupational asbestos exposure in Casale Monferrato, Italy. The study found that living with a worker from the Eternit asbestos cement plant (OR=2.4) or being exposed to domestic/environmental sources (OR=2.0) significantly elevated mesothelioma risk, even without direct occupational exposure. This builds on Wagner's 1960 findings of non-occupational mesothelioma cases and underscores the enduring threat of asbestos-related diseases in communities near industrial facilities. The research analyzed data from multiple studies to establish these associations, highlighting the need for public health measures to address environmental asbestos contamination.
The Castagnone Site (Cerrina Valley, Monferrato Hills, NW Italy): Early Pleistocene Sedimentary Record and Biochronology
Research at the Castagnone site in Italy's Cerrina Valley reveals a significant early Pleistocene sedimentary record, dating back approximately 1.07 to 0.99 million years ago during the Jaramillo Subchron. The study identified two alluvial units with distinct faunal remains, including Galerian macrofauna and microtine vole teeth, suggesting a dynamic paleoenvironmental history. Sediment analysis also indicated progressive syn-sedimentary tilting, linked to tectonic uplift in the Monferrato Hills, which appears to have stabilized before the deposition of the second alluvial unit. This finding provides crucial insights into the geological and biological evolution of the region during a pivotal period of Earth's history.
Wine, wineries & internet: How new media are used by producers of Langhe and Roero
A significant shift in consumer-producer communication within the UNESCO-listed Vineyard Landscape of Piedmont (Langhe-Roero and Monferrato) has been driven by the adoption of new media, particularly social networks. This study reveals that producers in these regions leverage digital platforms to establish immediate, cost-efficient connections with targeted, product-interested consumers, thereby optimizing resource allocation. By analyzing the online presence of numerous companies in Langhe and Roero, researchers assessed the effectiveness and perceived importance of network-driven contacts, also drawing comparisons with the Cuneo region. The findings underscore how technological advancements are reshaping traditional business models in this UNESCO World Heritage Site, offering insights into the evolving dynamics of wine production and marketing.
Geological map of the External Ligurian Units in western Monferrato (Tertiary Piedmont Basin, NW Italy)
A detailed geological map of the External Ligurian Units in western Monferrato, Italy, reveals a complex tectono-stratigraphic setting shaped by four distinct tectonic stages. Contrary to previous descriptions of these units as an undifferentiated chaotic complex, this 1:10,000-scale map identifies a Late Cretaceous succession comprising the Argille varicolori and the overlying Monte Cassio Flysch, sealed by late Eocene deposits from the Tertiary Piedmont Basin. Crosscutting relationships between stratigraphic unconformities and faults highlight significant geological processes, including layer-parallel extension during the Late Cretaceous–early Eocene, drowning of shelf sediments controlled by NW-striking left-lateral transtensive faulting in the Oligocene, and gravitational emplacement of late Oligocene breccias. The study also identifies NW-striking right-lateral transpressive faults that cut through earlier structures, sealed by a Tortonian unconformity.
Habitat selection in a changing environment: the relationship between habitat alteration and Scops Owl (Aves: Strigidae) territory occupancy
Scops Owl (Otus scops) territories in northwest Italy, particularly in the high-density Monferrato region, thrive in stable agricultural landscapes with minimal changes since the mid-1950s. The study used maximum entropy (MAXENT) models to analyze habitat occupancy across 401 territories, revealing a preference for middle-altitude areas with intermediate slopes, riparian zones, and pasture-grasslands while avoiding woodlands and Robinia pseudoacacia shrublands. Comparison of landcover data from 2009 and 1954/55 in Monferrato highlighted that stable cropland-vineyard mosaics are critical for owl occupancy. Conservation efforts should prioritize preserving riparian zones and promoting pasture-grassland-friendly agricultural practices to mitigate habitat loss, a key threat to this European concern species.
Planning Rural Landscapes: A Participatory Approach to Analyse Future Scenarios in Monferrato Astigiano, Piedmont, Italy
A participatory approach to planning rural landscapes reveals significant differences in expectations, perceptions, and attitudes between institutional stakeholders and civil society stakeholders when evaluating future scenarios. The study, conducted in Monferrato Astigiano, Piedmont, Italy, identified key driving forces affecting local landscape transformations and analyzed their likely impacts through focus group consultations. Findings highlight the complexity of shared decision-making processes in rural landscape planning, emphasizing the need for inclusive strategies that account for diverse stakeholder perspectives to effectively implement the European Landscape Convention.
Structural anatomy of the Ligurian accretionary wedge (Monferrato, NW Italy), and evolution of superposed melanges
Research reveals the complex, multi-stage evolution of the Ligurian accretionary wedge in northwestern Italy, highlighting three sequentially formed mélanges—tectonic, diapiric, and sedimentary—that developed through Late Cretaceous to late Oligocene processes. The study identifies a structurally ordered block-in-matrix fabric from tectonic mélange, triggered by NE-vergent thrusting during continental collision, while overpressurized fluids along thrust faults drove the rise of shaly material, forming diapiric mélange and later sedimentary mélange units. This interplay of tectonic, diapiric, and sedimentary processes controlled the dynamic equilibrium of the accretionary wedge, suggesting similar polygenetic mélanges may contribute to tsunamic events in convergent margins. The findings are based on multiscale structural analysis, offering insights into the geodynamic evolution of the NW Apennines–western Alps.
The feudal principalities: the west (Monferrato, Saluzzo, Savoy and Savoy-Acaia)
During the late Middle Ages, three feudal principalities—Monferrato, Saluzzo, and Savoy—shaped the political landscape of modern Piedmont. While Savoy expanded steadily under its powerful dynasty, Monferrato and Saluzzo faced territorial constraints due to rival powers like France and the Visconti–Sforza state. These dynasties, rooted in rural governance, maintained feudal loyalty to the emperor until 1530, demonstrating a strict and juridically aware approach to feudal investiture. This study clarifies their political dynamics, emphasizing Savoy's strategic position between stronger rivals and its enduring imperial precedence.
Stress‐induced temperature variations in groundwater of the Monferrato area (north‐western Italy)
Researchers have uncovered a significant correlation between seismic activity and groundwater temperature fluctuations in the Monferrato region of north-western Italy, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its vineyard landscapes. Despite being an area with low seismicity, the study found that earthquakes measuring M5.1 and M4.8 in 2000 and 2001 were accompanied by marked changes in water temperature and chemistry. A three-year monitoring period revealed episodes where groundwater temperatures rose by up to 20°C, coinciding with seismic events. This suggests that both phenomena may be triggered by the same crustal processes, offering new insights into the interplay between geological activity and hydrological systems.
Abitare il paesaggio. Lavorare nel paesaggio. Il caso di Langhe e Roero
A balanced approach to landscape management is essential for the sustainable development of Piedmont's Langhe-Roero wine regions. The study highlights that the area's reputation for wine excellence and tourism growth must be guided by shared visions to maintain ecological balance and aesthetic quality. It emphasizes the need for collaborative governance involving local authorities, stakeholders, and policymakers to ensure development aligns with landscape preservation. This approach aims to harmonize economic progress with environmental stewardship, offering a model for similar heritage sites facing similar challenges.
Evolution of karst in Messinian gypsum (Monferrato, Northern Italy)
Research on the Vineyard Landscape of Piedmont (Northern Italy) reveals that karst caves in Messinian gypsum formations likely began forming during a brief intra-Messinian emersion phase, with subsequent slow enlargement during the Quaternary. Cave sediments contain foraminiferal associations dating from Burdigalian to Upper Pliocene, suggesting recent deposition, though Upper Messinian accumulation cannot be entirely ruled out. The study suggests that caves initially developed under epigenic conditions and later expanded within a confined hypogene karst system. This finding provides new insights into the evolutionary history of karst landscapes in this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
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