Our Project Widespread Natural Museum has been working to restore the historic structures located within the woods of our farm. Our work includes the rebuilding of three huts as well as a sighting shed that was once used by hunters. In our restoration efforts we have kept the full respect for the environment and the integrity of the historical structures in mind, thanks in part to the use of bio-ecological materials and techniques.The center of the Museum is the Casale Cerreto and its connected building the ex- hay barn. Our informational panels are also located here.

 

The 3 huts (Elfi, Stagno, Querce) – which were used by hunters to observe and keep track of the movement of the animals – can be found along the path through our woods. The huts and sighting shed are a place for people to come and learn about our project and the history of this place and our past local traditions.

The sighting shed we restored is situated at the top of an oak. The sighting sheds were once used by hunters to get a better vantage point of the wild pigeons. We first stabilized the oak tree and then secured the wood and iron components of the shed. These sighting sheds can not be used anymore, but can be appreciated from the ground as a particular memory of local hunting traditions.

 

In order to keep the integrity and safety both of the buildings and the environment we used the ancient techniques of building, by recycling old materials present on the farm. Our methods followed the principles of bio-ecological architecture, making use of non-toxic and non-polluting materials (such as an old variety of lime) chosen for their low impact on the environment and being locally produced.

 

The restoration of the three huts , the sighting shed and the ex-hay barn, adds immense value to the unique environment and character of Torre Colombaia by reminding people of and preserving our past history.