Earthen vernacular architecture in Cuneo’s territories (Piedmont, Italy)

Piedmont is characterized by the presence of numerous earthen buildings mainly in the province of Alessandria. However, studies conducted over the last decade have shown the presence of interesting earthen constructions also in the provinces of Asti, Torino, Biella and Cuneo. They are generally two-storied rural buildings, built with both fired bricks (for the structures) and earthen bricks (for internal and external walls). They are evidence of the close relationship between man and his territory. They do represent the interesting evidence of know-hows and old-aged construction techniques. They are “fragile” architectures, little or not known, which may be irretrievably lost if not properly safeguarded. This paper intends to illustrate the results of researches aimed at deepening the knowledge of the earthen buildings located in the province of Cuneo, examining types, construction techniques and analysing the characteristics and performance of the constitutive materials through in situ tests (rebound test, peeling test, capillary absorption), characterization of the earth (XRD, particle size distribution, Atterberg limits) and identification of possible additives. This information will be useful not only to preserve the earthen heritage but also to promote the use of these construction techniques, evidence of skills and people's abilities to take advantage of the local environmental resources.