Narration and Representation of the Urban Landscape as a Cultural and Tourist Resource. Rome and Its Lungoteveri (Riverbanks)

Abstract

The contemporary city is the result of multiple natural and anthropic stratifications that have taken place over the centuries; these stratifications provide an opportunity to discuss the relationship between urban landscape and its representation. The study focuses on the representation and narration of its Lungoteveri (riverbanks); they are an emblematic part of the urban fabric of Rome, a continuous, linear riverside element running through the whole city. Any change in their use sparks a spatial and temporal shift, altering the perception and image of what is visible. As a result, movement and time are factors that cannot be neglected when a place is represented and narrated. This experiment involved a stretch of the Tiber from Ponte Milvio to Ponte Duca d’Aosta; the objective was to link representation, movement, time and fruition by using an application that acted as a database. Our dynamic, fluid and seamless experiments are an attempt to communicate the constant flow of people who, together with the river, create a continuous urban “blood circulation system”, and thus describe the chaotic, unpredictable and stratified city.