Reviving Collective Memory: Masella Cabin Memorial Center

Designed by Marte.Marte Architects, the Masella Cabin Memorial Center stands as a testament to the rich history and cultural heritage of Dafins, Austria. Erected in 2019, this architectural marvel pays homage to the bygone era of timber workers and raftsmen, encapsulating their legacy within a tangible spatial sculpture.

Historical Context

Perched above the village of Dafins, a gently sloping road meanders through meadows and forests, leading to the shady side of the village. Originally constructed in the 1920s by the village of Sulz, this road served as a vital artery for transporting wood down to the valley during winter months. Despite falling into disrepair after 1960, the old loggers’ road has been restored, providing access to the picturesque Masella ridge.

Architectural Tribute

The Masella Cabin, named after the Rhaeto-Romanic word for cheek, once served as a refuge for weary workers, offering respite and warmth amid the rugged landscape. Marte.Marte Architects envisioned a memorial that transcends its function as a mere resting place, intertwining elements of art, installation, and remembrance.

Materiality and Design

Constructed predominantly from concrete and chrome steel, the memorial embodies resilience and permanence, echoing the enduring spirit of the workers who once toiled in these mountains. The architectural composition evokes the former winter shelter, with concrete slabs and a trough-like fireplace forming the core of the structure. Notable features include a bench encircling the fireplace, symbolizing communal gatherings and shared stories.

Symbolic Integration

The memorial incorporates two distinct incisions: one encircling a fir tree, symbolizing rootedness and connection to the forest floor, and another providing access via a set of stairs. These design elements seamlessly integrate the memorial into its natural surroundings, inviting hikers to explore and reflect on the site’s rich history.

Educational Experience

Visitors are invited to delve deeper into the site’s history through the Masella book, a beautifully crafted tome engraved with explanatory texts and historical photographs. These artifacts offer insight into the working conditions and lifestyles of past generations, fostering a deeper appreciation for the region’s heritage.

Conclusion

Through the Masella Cabin Memorial Center, Marte.Marte Architects have succeeded in creating a poignant tribute to Dafins’ cultural heritage. By preserving the memory of the past within a contemporary architectural masterpiece, the memorial stands as a timeless reminder of the resilience and perseverance of those who came before us.