Tourists used to flock in droves to the historic town of Amatrice for its famous pasta and scenery—until a 6.2-magnitude earthquake struck central Italy in August 2016 and reduced it to rubble. One year later, the town finally has reason to rejoice. Stefano Boeri Architects recently completed the Amatrice Food Village, a new facility built entirely of innovative and low-cost timber construction, which marks a post-earthquake turning point as a new tourist attraction and job generator.
Built in collaboration with Corriere della Sera and TgLa7, the Amatrice Food Village was completed with pro-earthquake victim funds through the “Un aiuto subito Terremoto Centro Italia 6.0” initiative. Architect Stefano Boeri designed the new Food Village as an innovative 100 percent timber project that was built in record time to help Amatrice bounce back from the earthquake as soon as possible. The Food Village is part of the “Amate Amatrice” project and was presented alongside the “AMA AMATRICE Rose Garden” that symbolizes the rebuilding process.
The Amatrice Food Village is a major turning point in the reconstruction process and gives all restaurateurs the opportunity to return to their restaurants for the first time since the earthquake. The facility comprises one coffee bar and seven restaurants outfitted with large windows that overlook the Monti della Laga mountain range. The Food Village will draw tourists from around the world and give jobs to dozens of Amatrice families.
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“For me, this is a very touching moment,” said Boeri. “I’m happy that the new area has been delivered after so much effort and a never-ending winter that seemed to want to block us in every way! With the struggles of everyone, we were successful in our undertaking and today everything will begin to work again. Amatrice will finally be able to go back to offering its citizens and visitors the area’s food and wine excellences. It is a small though big sign of revival in a place profoundly wounded in its soul and body, a place that all Italians hold dear to their hearts.” The Amatrice Food Village was officially inaugurated on Saturday, July 29, 2017.
Images via Stefano Boeri Architects, pre-earthquake photo via Wikimedia
