ABSTRACT

This paper depicts some characteristics of long span roofs in Italy between the 16th and early 19th centuries, with the aim of highlighting the transregional and transnational transmission of knowledge during this period. The article is based on documentary analysis and building surveys and analysis of manuals and publications of the time. Different practices in Italian regions are considered and compared, especially the roof structures of churches in Bologna, an area of particular importance because of its location. Until the start of the 19th century the design and construction of this roof type was primarily based on direct experience and practice. From then, the design and verification of trusses derived from theories of the new-born Building Science. This paper aims to bring together some of the previous literature, mainly focused on specific buildings and specific regions, to highlight cultural ties, influences, technical references, and derivations, between regions.