Recovery and Conservation of Old Water Mills in Central Sicily

Established on the analysis of an area dotted by interesting anthropogenic and natural elements, this paper focuses on the recognition of the cultural value of Central Sicily's river landscape. In the territory of Piazza Armerina (Enna) the presence of streams full of water allowed, since the 14th century, a significant production cycle mainly related to the wheat cultivation and grinding. Of the related watermill system, abandoned as any longer functional, today remain little traces, which are, however, important source of cultural identity. This heritage, if rediscovered, conserved and enhanced, may play an essential role in the area's socioeconomic regeneration.