INTEGRATED
ENGINEERING
AND ARCHITECTURE

The fortress of Casale Monferrato, located in the historic centre of the city, was built in 1352 at a strategic point near the Po River and adjacent to the village. From the Middle Ages to the present day, it has undergone numerous modernisations, modifications, and demolitions. Despite this stratification, it remains a significant example of military architecture from past centuries and a historical and artistic heritage of great value. The project’s primary objective was to restore, repurpose, and functionally redevelop the Castle by relocating the Library System and all associated offices and services, currently housed in other buildings, to the ancient fortress. In addition to these offices, other related activities were designed to be situated within the Castle, aiming to transform it into a Cultural Centre that serves as both an attraction and a hub for community engagement. To this end, it was essential to identify not only the primary activities but also the complementary ones, such as a youth space, artistic workshops, a multipurpose room, commercial activities, a restaurant, a bar, and a tasting room for local products. Consolidation and restoration efforts were planned for the decorative elements, whilst the room's usage was to be determined solely by its furnishings. This approach aimed to minimise impact and preserve the integrity of the space.