Post-earthquake reconstruction in central Italy: challenges and vision

Following the devastating earthquake of August 24, 2016, that struck Amatrice, Arquata del Tronto, Accumoli, and surrounding areas, new commissioner Vasco Errani faces the monumental task of rebuilding homes, squares, streets, and public buildings while reconnecting the lives of those who lost everything. The article argues that reconstruction must be pragmatic, swift, and intelligent, avoiding the pitfalls of new towns or Gibellina-style cathedrals in the desert. It calls for smart cities that integrate technological complexity, energy sustainability, and urban quality, rejecting iconic architecture that ignores people's needs. The author urges Errani to heed the advice of Senator for Life Renzo Piano, who was called by the Prime Minister to contribute ideas, and to ignore Vittorio Sgarbi. Reconstruction should be 'where it was' but not necessarily 'as it was,' allowing for modernity while bypassing conservative superintendencies. The article insists on involving Italian architects to safeguard, rebuild, and design new beauty, creating social connections through architecture to restore the sense of civitas. Ultimately, the reconstruction should become a model of innovation and rebirth for Italy.