Dovecotes: From Rural Tradition to Modern Architectural Vision

Dovecotes are among the most distinctive expressions of rural architecture in many European and non-European landscapes, precious evidence of the centuries-old intertwining of architecture, landscape and agricultural traditions. This proposal aims to investigate this architectural typology in the Euro-Mediterranean and Middle Eastern areas, in order to highlight its main characteristics, the materials used and the most common building types. The methodology adopted is based on the study of historical and literary sources, architectural and agricultural treatises, and pigeon protection regulations. The ultimate aim is to understand the role that these structures can still play in the contemporary world. Through the analysis of a number of contemporary projects inspired by dovecotes, the contribution prompts critical reflection on the potential contribution of these structures to the development of a vision of architecture in dialogue with the local ecosystem.