The conceptual design of modern use and the presentation of GAF (Gaurdia alla Frontiera) military posts - Alpine Wall

Newly established Rapallo border in 1920 cut deep into Slovenian ethnical territory and roughly divided and affected lives of local inhabitants. The thesis investigates forgotten Guardia alla frontiera military posts, as a symbol of connection and its challenges for new-use plans.

The work began with the research of archival material in museums and environmental institutions. It soon became clear that the military posts are not mapped in state geodetic plans and that their status is unclear. \nWith the help of local experts, hiking and military history enthusiasts we discovered twenty similar GAF military posts. The mapped buildings were the basis for the catalogue containing descriptions of places, plans, outlines of topographies, lists of ownerships and use, analysis of constructions and photographic essays which highlight the most important characteristics of the individual structures and environment. The analyses are supported by stories and memories from the exploration of the GAF military posts.\nOn the basis of four selected case studies we present a reflection on the possibilities and value of unprotected cultural heritage. We are conceptually considering four objects that follow the complexity of the proposed solutions and the degree of renewal (01 - less complex, 04 - more complex). The proposed ideas can be transferred to all GAF military posts.\nThe goal of the project is already evident from the title: changing the border artefacts division role into the role of connection, preserving the memory of the past, protecting the heritage and presenting it. The project wishes to draw attention to an important part of European history and heritage derived from it. We would like to raise awareness among the local inhabitants as well as encourage the occasional visitors and travellers to get acquainted with the cultural heritage. The challenge also offers renewal with new-use plans. Both ideas promote local and national identity and contribute to a common European historical memory.