Memory of antiquity and new compatible museum functions Some considerations on the industrial heritage related to electricity production

The industrial heritage is represented by a set of strongly stratified architectural complexes characterized by different technical, formal, and distributive solutions that were gradually added and superimposed to one another, when required by the evolution of technology and by the changes in production processes. Actually, it is this stratification (additions, changes of use, momentary abandonment and subsequent reuse, accompanied by architectural and technological adjustments) that gives an industrial complex a particular value.Indeed, the continuous evolution is the essence of this particular architectural form. From the birth of the first factories to present day, the industrial buildings have been able to quickly change their architectural form and their material and formal consistency according for the work and production needs. For this reason, we have now the opportunity to read a "history of architecture" consisting of a sequence of materials and technologies that have been subsequently replaced or superimposed to one another, in a list of examples related to the testing of reinforced concrete, of iron, cast iron, steel; or to the use of large glass surfaces or shed roofs; or to the use of natural and artificial energy sources. Many European experiences of conservation and reuse of industrial buildings have already considered this approach: the choice of the new functions is dictated by the flexibility of the building towards the necessary technical and energy adjustments. This is to achieve a proper balance between respect for the historical memory of the building and the need to adapt to the standards of energy, social and cultural sustainability