Inhabiting the Mincio Valleys. Economies, society and territory in Rodigo and Rivalta sul Mincio

The research explores issues and phenomena characterising the territories of the right orographic bank of the Mincio River, between Goito and Mantova, with a specific focus on Rodigo and Rivalta sul Mincio, which, due to their peculiar geographical condition, represents the fulcrum of a system connecting the river and this part of the Mantova region. Peculiar rhythms, definite spatiality and stable features characterise these places. Here, several issues – related to the hydraulic system, environmental challenges and economic perspectives – find a convenient arrangement, almost expressing a sign of care for the territory rather than negotiating with this last. The research aims to imagine a different future and a forthcoming collective dimension for this territory, making it possible to elaborate “a possible project” for the Mincio Valleys region, moving from ongoing processes and policies and devising new ones, fostering all local development strategies toward some relevant endogenous characters and realistic and sustainable perspectives, in close coherence with the framework of the UNESCO Recommendation on the Historic Urban Landscape.