Casa del Balilla, located on Via Marina Vecchia in Massa, Italy, is a fascinating blend of historical significance and modern adaptation. Originally built in 1931, this building has evolved through various phases, reflecting the changing times and purposes it has served. As you explore this intriguing site, you'll discover its rich history, unique architecture, and the vibrant community activities it hosts today.
Casa del Balilla was designed by engineer Emanuele Filiberto Paolini and constructed in 1931. It was initially established as a Casa del Balilla, a facility for athletic activities and services for the adjacent sports field. The building was owned by the Opera Nazionale Balilla, an organization responsible for youth activities during the Fascist regime in Italy.
After World War II, the building changed hands and was managed by the E.D.O.R.C. of the Massa diocese. It was renamed Centro Dina delle Piane and operated by the Centro Sportivo Italiano. However, the building fell into disuse and neglect for several years until a significant renovation took place between 1990 and 1996. This restoration, led by architect P. Pavoni from Massa, included the addition of a new volume on the first floor.
Today, the building is known as Centro Giovanile S. Carlo Borromeo. It serves as a youth center managed by the Centro Sportivo Italiano - Massa Carrara provincial committee and the Azione Cattolica Italiana - Massa Carrara Pontremoli diocese. While still maintaining its sports activities, the center now primarily functions as a hub for youth engagement and community activities.
Casa del Balilla is an architectural marvel with its distinct volumes and functional design. The building stands out with its two-story structure and flat roof. The main parallelepiped volume is complemented by a semi-circular entrance hall, which resembles the prow of a ship. This entrance hall is a single-story structure crowned by a pronounced cornice, adding to its unique charm.
The original yellow-colored volumes of the building have been expanded with an additional narrow volume on the ground floor, painted in gray to distinguish it from the original structure. This new addition features a row of square openings framed in white marble, along with a marble base plinth. Towards the interior, the new extension rises to two floors, forming the wall of the new glass volume on the first floor. This glass volume is seamlessly connected to the rear heating plant tower and the double-height gymnasium.
The gymnasium, preserved in its original form, boasts tall arched windows facing the former sports field and circular openings on the first floor terrace overlooking the street. These architectural elements highlight the building's functional design while adding an aesthetic appeal.
As you step inside Casa del Balilla, you enter through the circular entrance hall, which originally served as a meeting room. Today, it houses the bar of the Circolo and connects to the director's office. Behind the bar, a staircase leads to the upper floor, where a vast recreational area and a long corridor connecting to the service area and gymnasium are located.
The first floor features a recently constructed multi-purpose volume made of metal and entirely glazed. This new addition has a flat roof supported by a truss structure, providing a modern touch to the historic building. A terrace with a metal railing extends along the length of the building and in front of the new hall, offering a practical outdoor space for various activities.
Casa del Balilla has always been more than just a building; it has been a focal point for community activities and youth engagement. In its early years, it played a crucial role in promoting physical fitness and sports among the youth. Today, as Centro Giovanile S. Carlo Borromeo, it continues to serve as a vibrant community center, hosting a range of activities for young people.
The center offers various sports activities, recreational programs, and cultural events, fostering a sense of community and belonging among the youth. It is a place where young people can come together, learn new skills, and engage in positive activities that contribute to their personal growth and development.
Visiting Casa del Balilla is like taking a journey through time. The building's architecture tells the story of its historical significance and the various phases it has undergone. The blend of original features and modern additions creates a unique atmosphere that reflects both its past and present.
Whether you are interested in architecture, history, or community activities, Casa del Balilla offers something for everyone. It stands as a testament to the resilience and adaptability of buildings, evolving to meet the needs of the community while preserving its historical essence.
In conclusion, Casa del Balilla is not just a building; it is a symbol of the community's spirit and a beacon of hope for the future. Its walls echo the stories of the past while embracing the vibrant energy of the present, making it a must-visit destination in Massa, Italy.
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