Summary
The unique cultural landscape of Comacchio, nestled within the Po Delta's lagoon, reflects a transformative interplay between human adaptation and environmental influence. This study reveals how political instability during late antiquity prompted the settlement in such demanding landscapes, fostering distinct architectural forms and cultural identities tied to water-based living. Historical analysis of urban development shows significant morphological changes from the 19th century onward, driven by technical advancements and economic pressures like unemployment, which led to extensive land reclamation. Today, the Valli's extensified use supports critical bird habitats within a Natura-2000 Biosphärenreservat, underscoring its ecological significance. Comacchio's evolution, alongside Ferrara, exemplifies how cultural landscapes adapt while retaining intrinsic identities, contributing to their 1995 UNESCO World Heritage designation.
Citation
Wäsler, P. (2026). TERRÆ NUOVÆ : transformative Raumidentitäten einer Lagunenstadt : Museo culturale del Delta : ein Kulturzentrum für Comacchio. TU Wien. https://doi.org/10.34726/HSS.2026.137923