Making Urban Spaces Accessible Without Giving Up Sampietrini
It is possible to make urban spaces accessible without sacrificing sampietrini, thanks to an approach that combines the enhancement of historical heritage with the practical needs of modern life. The core idea is simple: use sampietrini where they make the most sense—such as in pedestrian or low-traffic areas—and complement them with solutions that improve usability for everyone, especially for those with mobility or visual impairments.
Here’s how this vision translates into practice:
Sampietrini in Pedestrian Zones
In historic areas or spaces redeveloped for soft mobility, sampietrini are preserved or restored to maintain the identity of the place. This is the case, for example, along the route from Piazza San Giovanni to the Colosseum or the streets connecting the basilicas on the Aventine Hill. In these contexts, the cobblestone surface retains both its function and aesthetic value.
Of course, it’s not the most comfortable surface for everyone—it can be uneven or challenging for wheelchairs, walking canes, or mobility aids. That’s why it’s essential to carefully choose where to use them and, above all, how to install them: high-quality paving, with well-aligned, stable stones and regular joints, makes a significant difference in terms of comfort and safety.
Accessibility for All
Ensuring accessibility means more than just removing physical barriers—it also involves designing urban paths that are intuitive, safe, and inclusive. This is particularly important for people with mobility impairments or visual disabilities. Some of the most effective measures include:
- Tactile paths (“loges”) for the blind and visually impaired, placed at strategic points such as intersections and crossings to aid orientation.
- Sidewalk improvements, including realignment of travertine stones and surface upgrades, to ensure stability and continuity.
- Adjusting grates and manholes to align with the pavement surface, avoiding tripping hazards and ensuring smooth passage for people using wheelchairs or walking aids.
A City That Is Beautiful, Historic, and Accessible
The goal is to create urban spaces that combine beauty and functionality. Sampietrini can continue to characterize historic areas, but they must be part of a broader project that takes into account the needs of all citizens.
Careful planning of pathways, high-quality installation, and targeted accessibility improvements make it possible to build a welcoming city—where history and inclusion can truly coexist.