Fornace Hoffmann

Not far from Serra de’ Conti on the border with the territory of Arcevia stands an important example of industrial archaeology: the Hoffmann Furnace – a Hoffmann-type brick kiln (1,000 m. XIX). Built in an area rich in excellent clay and water, thanks to the proximity of the Misa River, it remained in operation from 1884 to 1971.

Privately owned, it has recently undergone a major conservative restoration project.

In 1884, together with the furnace, a building was also built to serve as a residence for those who would cultivate the lands in front of the furnace. The simultaneous execution of the two buildings is evidenced by the same use of brick columns which in the furnace support the large conical roof and in the building are placed against the external masonry.

Since 1973, the new, large longitudinal furnace, built with steel beams near its monumental predecessor, has been in operation to replace the old furnace.

A new conservative restoration involved the entire complex in the late ’90s when the entire structure was purchased by a local entrepreneur to create offices and exhibition spaces. Currently, part of the ancient furnace houses a restaurant.