Research: High-Altitude “Microcities”. The Design Laboratory of Marilleva (1970–1988)
Stefano Maiorano is an architect and Ph.D. student at the Department of Architecture and Design within the Ph.D. program in Architecture and Construction at Sapienza University of Rome. He conducts research as part of the Urban Morphology curriculum. After graduating with honors in Architecture (single-cycle degree) from Sapienza University, he was admitted to the 39th doctoral cycle. His research focuses on the study of "high-altitude Microcities” with particular attention to the settlement of Marilleva in Trentino-Alto Adige (1977–1988), within the framework of the renowned 1968 urban planning scheme. The term “Microcities", introduced by the designer of the case study under examination —a protégé and collaborator of Giuseppe Samonà—describes compact, self-sufficient urban settlements equipped with all essential functions. His research aims to analyze these settlements as experimental models of urbanity in mountain contexts, investigating the interplay between different design scales, from urban planning to technical detailing. In addition to his research activities, Stefano regularly participates in competitions, workshops, seminars offered by the doctoral program, advanced training courses, and professional experiences, enriching his academic path. He has also served as a tutor in Architectural Design courses within the Department and contributed to academic projects and publications. His interest in the interaction between architecture, the built environment, and drawing informs his methodological and interdisciplinary approach, aimed at understanding and reinterpreting the complexities of architectural and urban design.