| Background
HCN returns to the medieval town of Serravalle, Vittorio Veneto in northern Italy at the foot of the Alps. The town’s narrow streets wind through a treasure trove of buildings that retain much of their original design, materials and faded finishes. Current revitalization efforts are aimed at conserving this vision of the past while once again making use of its beautiful spaces. This is will be the second international course on conservation at the site, and participants will build upon work accomplished in 2007 – specifically documentation of the monastery cloister’s wall paintings and stone columns. In 2008, chemical and physical analysis will be an additional focus, making this a remarkable opportunity for students and professionals to gain scientifically based instruction.
The Church of S. Giovanni Battista (Saint John the Baptist) dates back to 1367. The cloister was built adjacent to the Church in the early 15th century and housed the Minor Franciscan order until 1769. The cloister was modified in 1668; it is believed the wall paintings were completed at that time. The Franciscan theme of the paintings and reports of competition between orders to produce rich decoration support this time frame. Over the next few centuries the monastery fell into disrepair. During repair work in 19th century some of the original columns were replaced.
Project
The focus of the workshop will be on examination and documentation of the cloister’s elements, primarily the twenty interior stone columns and the paintings which decorate its walls. Examination during Week 1 will provide  details about the current condition and existing problems, information needed prior to the technical presentations. Alma Ortolan will also teach a one-day workshop on fresco painting techniques in addition to the conservation of wall paintings to give participants a better understanding of the materials they are dealing with. This will be followed by a one-day lecture on Bio-Deterioration of Monumental Rocks: Decay Mechanisms & Control Methods taught by Dr. Piero Tiano of the Italian National Research Council in Florence (CNR).
Week 2 will include a two-day workshop entitled Nanotechnology in Wall Painting Conservation: Nanolime as a New Tool for Consolidation led by Prof. Luigi Dei of the University of Florence. Participants will also assist with the preparation of a report by reviewing and confirming data previously collected, preparing photographic documentation, and adding information collected during this workshop.
 Serravalle is located near a number of important towns, including Padua, Treviso, and Venice. In order to provide an opportunity to experience the history and character of the area, the program includes several guided field trips:
- Serravalle – Participants will be given an orientation tour of the town.
- Grotte del Caglieron – A short trip will be taken to this grotto, which is the source of sandstone for the cloister.
- Treviso – A day in Treviso is scheduled with a half day guided tour of the 14th Century frescoes of Tomaso da Modera which adorn the city’s churches, and the remainder of the day for shopping and touring on your own.
- Venice – If staying two weeks, participants may tour Venice on their own on the weekend of April 26-27.
Logistics
Participants will stay in the monastery in dormitory-style double rooms with private bath. Accommodations are available in single rooms or a double room in the palazzo or in the nearby hotel for an additional fee. Continental breakfast and an Italian lunch will be provided each day at the monastery. A Welcome Dinner will take place at 7pm at the palazzo on each Sunday, i.e. April 20 and 27. Sunday is the day designated for participant arrival and departure.
A special rate of US$1900 for two weeks, double occupancy (US$ 950 for one week) is available for accompanying partners who wish to explore the region during the day while participants attend the course. Breakfast and lunch are included in the fee, and accompanying partners are welcome to participate in the field trips to Serravalle, the grotto, Treviso and Venice.
Transportation to the site is the responsibility of the participant. However, if you need assistance with arrangements, contact HCN. Transportation from the airport in Venice or the train station in Vittorio Veneto or Conegliano Veneto can be arranged. If you would like to extend your stay in the area, local organizers will help with arrangements.
Depending on your nationality, you may need a visa to enter Italy. If you need a visa, be sure to allow sufficient time for processing, approximately 2-4 months.
Springtime temperatures in the region generally reach 22 C (72 F) during the day, with significantly cooler temperatures at night. Bring attire appropriate for the weather that will also be comfortable while working. Be conscious that safety is an important issue at any worksite. Protection for the skin and eyes is particularly important when working with chemicals.
If you need additional information, please contact us at workshops @ heritageconservation.net or call +1 303-444-0128.
If you would like to help with conservation work but are unable to attend the workshop, you can still participate
by supporting our conservation efforts with a tax-deductible donation
to HCN.
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