Borghi storici e villaggi operai: storie parallele di abbandono e opportunità di rigenerazione

The Italian territory can be interpreted as a complex palimpsest of historical and social stratifications, where rural and industrial settlements have shaped landscapes, identities, and community networks. Within this framework, the contribution proposes a comparative analysis between the historic village of Campolo and the workers’ village of Ca’ di Landino, both located in the Bolognese Apennines in Emilia-Romagna. Although different in origin and function, both now share conditions of depopulation, decay, and marginality, outcomes of historical processes, ruralization and industrialization, that have produced fragile landscapes and incomplete infrastructures. The study compares urban structure, relationship with the territory, original functions, and infrastructures, highlighting significant analogies and differences. The historical evolution of these territories suggests replicable trajectories to foster resilience and new opportunities in small Apennine settlements. Urban and territorial regeneration emerges as a key strategy to enhance local communities, historical memory, and environmental resources, combining cultural, social, and economic interventions through a sustainable approach.