Conservazione programmata e monitoraggio nell’area archeologica di Santa Croce (Ravenna)

The paper presents the results of the activities conducted in the church and archaeological area of Santa Croce (Ravenna, Italy) as part of the H2020 SHELTER project. The heritage site is situated below the groundwater table level and relies on a continuously working drainage system to be kept dry. This system, which already malfunctioned and caused flooding during the project years, will be increasingly under stress by the variation in rainfall patterns brought by climate change. The team of researchers from the University of Bologna involved in the project has implemented an interdis- ciplinary monitoring system in the area aimed at gathering a comprehensive cognitive picture of the site criticalities. Starting with regional level data collection, the research extensively addressed threats such as hydraulic risk, subsidence, and structural instability. The conducted study, surveying and monitoring investigations revealed deficiencies in the drainage system and a lack of consistent and systematic maintenance of the site and its service infrastructures. The data and outcomes of the research activities contributed to the development of a monitoring and programmed conservation Plan, delivered to the local stakeholders in charge of the management of the area of Santa Croce. This contribution highlights the twofold purpose of the research outcomes. On one hand, they consti- tute an extensive, detailed and up-to-date database of information about the site and its context. On the other, the Plan is a tool for site management driven by an interdisciplinary approach that considers both the current challenges and those that may arise due to climate change. Ultimately, the findings become a powerful operational tool at disposal of the administrations involved in occurrence of future project intervention for this heritage area, in compliance with current regulations.