The roof structure of the Men’s Oratory of the Albergo dei Poveri in Genoa

Abstract

The Genoese roof structures are characterized by the originality of their construction and technological solutions compared to other cultural and geographical areas, including neighbouring ones, and, in particular, by the unique connection with the underlying wall structures, by their thrusting nature and by the scarce or non-existent presence of trusses. From the second half of the 16th century, in the roofs of large spaces such as churches and assembly halls, the wooden elements of the main roof structure are supported by solid brick pillars resting on arches or the ribs of the underlying vaulted structures. This paper describes the building features, the state of preservation, and the restoration and consolidation project of the roof and the underlying vault with timber ribs and plastered reed mats on the intrados of the Men’s Oratory of the Albergo dei Poveri in Genoa, one of the largest still preserved in the monumental complex and one of the most imposing among those still present in the city.