Architecture transcends the realm of mere sculptural aesthetics; it stands as a utilitarian discipline, one that extends its purpose beyond form to convey profound meaning, serve vital functions, and articulate powerful statements. In our contemporary era, we find ourselves surrounded by a crucible of challenges, a time marked by impending global issues such as gentrification, climate change, resource depletion, and social injustices (Moore, 2006). The responsibility for addressing these pressing matters now rests upon our shoulders as the next generation of architects, tasked with actively contributing to these pivotal discussions.
While considerable efforts are being made to reshape how we approach architectural education, emphasising sustainable materials, circular designs, and environmental consciousness, there remains a noticeable gap. Social sustainability, inequality, inclusivity, and the uneven distribution of resources within architectural proposals are areas that require more attention (Hassan, 2018). These are not abstract concerns; they are urgent issues that reverberate in the daily lives of billions—individuals residing in slums, struggling with inhabitable conditions, and spilling into the streets in pursuit of even the slightest ounce of space (Lefebvre, 1968). The gravity of these challenges necessitates a strong, coherent and comprehensive approach within architectural discourse in order to truly spark transformative change.
Naples ranks third in Italy by population density, with 9102 inhabitants per km². Despite trends of central areas emptying out as residents move to outlying towns, Naples maintains one of the densest populations in Europe. Living conditions are inadequate, evident in data showing Naples having the highest inhabitants per dwelling, the least living space per inhabitant, and the largest number of family members (Istat, 2011). The Quartieri Spagnoli, embedded in Naples’ historical fabric since the 16th century, are the perfect reference of such living conditions. Renowned for their narrow streets and constant pressed flows of people, the Quartieri are the perfect symbol for unregulated public spaces within the city, embracing and showcasing first-hand the consequences of the city’s inhabitable settlements (Coletta 2022; Pascariello, 2018). They transcend mere pathways, evolving into areas for commerce, dining, folklore, and the preservation of Naples’ mysteries.
My research delves into these intricate Neapolitan urban dynamics, evaluating the viability of urban acupuncture and regeneration as a solution for the cities’ inhabitable living conditions. Naples is a city built on tradition, a constant expression of folklore where actions are carried out almost ritualistically based on what they once were. The work will base its theoretical framework on the thought of Lefebvre and Foucault (1991; 1977), exploring the dynamics of spaces shaping their inhabitants or vice versa within an urban context steeped in tradition and culture. These will be used as tools to answer the following research question:
THE NEAPOLITAN ‘SLUMS’ RENAISSANCE: A NEW ERA OF REGENERATION
To what extent can urban acupuncture serve as a practical solution in city environments influenced by tradition and cultural factors?
The narrative of the thesis will not solely focus on the context of Naples; it will also extend to the slum regeneration projects in the South American contexts and their remarkable success. The failure of Progetto Scampia, Naples’ singular attempt to address squatting, prompts an examination of why Naples is often considered a lost cause. The essay will aim to study whether successful models from South American slums could be applied to enhance the quality of life in Neapolitan slums. Is the problem a lack of viable solutions, or a failure to implement effective ones? The written work will act as a journey through historical uprisings, cultural identity and spatial appropriation, all in the attempt of fully understanding and grasping the intricate dynamics of the Quartieri Spagnoli. I will do so through the use of primary resources, such as photographic studies and interviews, as well as literature sources.