Morphological and typological assessment of architectural heritage in historical Mediterranean ports

The preservation of historical maritime heritage has become critical, due to interference of industrial, commercial and logistic facilities, which have completely changed the maritime landscape of ports and represent a high hazard factor. In fact, anthropic activities, transformation of spaces or technological innovation produce pathological effects that, according to heritage vulnerability, lead to obsolescence and then to the damage or even to the loss. The research work aims to analyse Mediterranean historical ports in order to define a methodology for risk analysis that leads to the development of strategies and guidelines for refurbishment and enhancement of architectural maritime heritage as well as for integration of the port-city system. Particularly, the paper will describe and discuss the historical and morphological evolution of the most significant Mediterranean port cities. In this step of the research, the first aim is to define how the morphological structure of the ports has evolved, in relation to the historical period and the geographical position. The second is to identify and classify historical port buildings and spaces. The third is to describe the techniques for the construction of harbour works, such as piers and quays.