Restoring Memory. Bottom Up Enhancement of a Lieu de Mémoire

Abstract

Cities are full of realms of memory, places in which history meets geography, according to Nora’s definition. But in addition, these sites, which can be a memorial stone, a square, or a significant date, primarily contribute to maintain a particular reading of historical events which have affected a community. These realms are usually created by Institutions, but eventually different subjects, not strictly institutional, can have a say and participate in the shaping of collective memory. The case of the restoration of Ca’ di Guzzo is emblematic. During the night between 27th and 28th September 1944, some units of the 362° Grenadier Division clashed, during retreat, with the 36° Brigata (Brigade) Garibaldi-Bianconcini and the 62° Brigata Garibaldi-Camice Rosse, at Ca’ di Guzzo, an isolated farmhouse in the upper valley of the river Sillaro (Appennino Tosco-Romagnolo). The battle was ferocious and ended with the partisans’ defeat. The restoration process of the farmhouse took place after decades of forgetfulness.