Previous state
Rimini, a city in the Emilia-Romagna region of northeastern Italy, is one of the most popular tourist destinations on the Adriatic coast. With over 15 kilometres of coastline and numerous hotels, restaurants and other facilities, it has become Italy’s top beach destination in terms of visitor numbers. Before the redevelopment, Rimini’s promenade was fragmented, lacked a clear identity and cohesion, and did not fulfil its potential as a public space, failing to provide an attractive environment for residents and tourists. Furthermore, the lack of connection between the city and the waterfront limited its use and enjoyment throughout the year.
Aim of the intervention
The project aimed to transform the promenade into an urban park that would encourage both active and passive use of the public space. The goal was to create a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere where the beach, sea and vegetation would blend harmoniously. It was designed to promote culture, well-being and sport through various activities and functions that would appeal to people of all ages and in all seasons. Finally, it sought to help offset the effects of climate change by providing protection against rising sea levels.
Description
The Parco del Mare in Rimini has transformed the previously unstructured and fragmented waterfront into an urban park that blends seamlessly into its surroundings. Spanning over 6 kilometres, it reflects the city’s vibrant character while providing a new identity and green urban space for tourists and locals alike. The design features curved lines and soft colours that guide visitors along the promenade, with wooden and ceramic paving that highlights different themes in different sections and connects the park to the city. Specific themes are represented in the paving and squares, reflecting Rimini’s diverse historical and cultural identities, from Ancient Rome to the Fellini era and beyond. Native vegetation, such as coastal flora, is integrated to provide shade and a natural setting for the promenade. The dunes gently connect the beach level with the higher promenade level can withstand the elements thanks to the low shrub vegetation. They have become essential to the promenade’s plant life, providing shelter from the sea winds and allowing trees to grow along the promenade above them. The dunes were designed in different sizes and materials, ranging from green dunes in the form of large flowerbeds to wooden and ceramic dunes. By maintaining the same form but varying in size and material, they serve multiple functions within the park.
Assessment
The redevelopment has revitalised Rimini’s seafront, making it an attractive and accessible destination all year round. In an area under significant tourist pressure, it offers a space of well-being for both locals and visitors. The integration of natural and cultural elements has created a unique environment that promotes local identity and community enjoyment. In addition, the careful and sustainable design of the public space reflects a contemporary approach to urban planning and tourism development. The park plays a crucial role in reducing the effects of climate change while mitigating the intense impact of tourism on the urban character and quality of the area.
[Last update: 06/11/2024]
