The Historical and Cultural Institute of the Arma del Genius

ni Ed. Nordpress p. 114 It is difficult to retrace the history of the Engineer Weapon in a few words without making mistakes or omissions. In fact, the Genius has always existed, being as ancient as war.

 The need to proceed to fortify the cities and, on the other hand, the need to destroy the fortifications, are part of every ancient and modern civilization that has clashed with the reality of war.

During the First World War the Arma grew in number and specialty including: Diggers, Miners, Pontieri, Ferrovieri, Telegraphers (then the Transmissions, like Arma in itself, did not exist yet), Lagunari, Aerostieri, Lanciafiamme, Masquerades, Motorists, Lanciagas, Hydraulics, Firefighters, Plumbers, Cableway Drivers, Meteorological Specialists, Electricians, Radiogoniometrists and River Guides.

In the book, the author summarizes the history of the weapon and of the historical institute created to preserve its memory. From the fourth chapter begins the description of the rooms that occupy an area of ​​approximately 5.000 square meters. Numerous black and white photographs accompany the explanations. It is interesting to note the numerous models and models present, among these is that of the Institute itself. 

The Institute houses a Library where documents and documents from the First World War are kept, as well as the Historical Archive and the Historical Museum of Military Architecture. Among the various rooms the author also presents the Hall of Sardinian nuraghe with various models (I hope to be able to visit it soon!).

Browsing through the book made me want to visit the Institute, which I will do as soon as it is re-opened to the public.

Happy reading.

Alessandro Rugolo