The concept of morpho-typology in the Alberobello urban organism

The proposed topic on the city of Alberobello is the result of research carried out within the Degree Thesis Laboratory promoted in the Dicar Department of the Bari Polytechnic. The analysis carried out at the settlement scale follows the aim of reconstructing the development phases starting from the formation of the original nucleus up to the mature structure conquered in the 19th century. The city was born close to a “blade” and is made up of two different nuclei characterized by irregular paths conditioned by the morphology of the soil. The original structure of the city has been reconstructed from a historical map, from the beginning of the 17th century, in which some rural aggregates appear on the promontory of Aia Piccola and, near the paths drawn longitudinally to the topography, in the slope of the Rione Monti (both the nuclei are part of the UNESCO perimeter). The connection logic of the bands pertaining to the linear trullo1 systems seems to be comparable to that typical of medieval systems with an initial construction on a “matrix” path, a subsequent one on planting path and, sometimes, with the closure of the block through the building on the connecting path. Similarly to other similar configurations, the hierarchical relationship of the routes may vary in relation to the coexistence of several pre-existing or planned routes, determining a different role of the built. With the reading of the relevant areas and the hierarchical definition of the routes, the relationship that was established between the aggregates that make up the blocks present especially in the Monti district was reconstructed. This critical operation, carried out by recognizing the building types and the aggregative method with which they relate, despite the scarce documentary elements available, will make it possible to suggest a perspective of possible urban recovery by providing for the integration of all functions and attitudes (residence, services , commercial activities, etc.) that define the urban organism. Thus trying to reverse the current trend in which all the fabric is destined only for tourist-accommodation purposes that deny the typological-functional mix that would make it a city in the proper sense.