ABSTRACT
In the framework of the SIXXI project, on the history of structural engineering in Italy in the 20th century (ERC Advanced Grant, PI Sergio Poretti, Tullia Iori – www.sixxi.eu), the authors of this contribution dedicated specific research to the dissemination of Italian structural engineering beyond Italy’s borders after the Second World War. During that period, the opportunities abroad seemed to grow for construction companies. Instead, as a result of this research, it has emerged that apart from Pier Luigi Nervi, the most famous designers of the “Italian School of Engineering” were not at ease in the international market, rarely seizing opportunities for construction. In this context, a trend attracted attention and represents the specific object of this paper, namely, the design of visionary and futuristic structural solutions that were sometimes even utopian and megalomaniac.
