Nestled above the village of Dafins, Austria, lies a gentle sloping road that winds through meadows and forests, leading to the tranquil side of the village. This road, constructed in the 1920s, served as a vital route for transporting wood during winter months. Despite periods of damage and disrepair, the old loggers’ road has been restored, offering access to the picturesque Masella ridge.
A Tribute to Tradition
Atop the Masella ridge stood a humble wooden cabin, providing refuge for raftsmen and timber workers. Today, a striking spatial sculpture, crafted by Marte.Marte Architects, pays homage to this bygone era. Constructed entirely from concrete and chrome steel, this installation serves as a poignant reminder of the cabin’s legacy.
Sculpting Memory
The Masella Cabin memorial, blending art installation with memorial tribute, embodies the collective memory of a post-agrarian society. Massive yet minimalist, its design evokes images of snowy winters and the toil of laborers. Concrete forms, meticulously crafted, outline the former shelter, while chrome steel plates bear engraved texts and photographs, narrating the cabin’s history with reverence and respect.
Symbolism in Design
Incorporating natural elements into its design, the memorial features a notch surrounding a fir tree, symbolizing its rootedness in the forest floor. A narrow forest path leads visitors to the installation, inviting them to engage with its rich history. The craftsmanship of the Masella book, engraved with explanatory texts and photos, further enhances the visitor experience, offering insight into the lives of those who once inhabited this rugged terrain.
Honoring the Past
With a blend of sensitivity and abstraction, Marte.Marte Architects have created a space where history comes alive. Through meticulous attention to detail and a profound respect for the past, the Masella Cabin memorial center stands as a timeless tribute to the enduring spirit of those who labored amidst the Alpine foothills.
Masalla Hütte, by Marte Marte Architects. Photography by Faruk Pinjo, 2020.
Masalla Hütte, by Marte Marte Architects. Photography by Faruk Pinjo, 2020.
Masalla Hütte, by Marte Marte Architects. Photography by Faruk Pinjo, 2020.
Masalla Hütte, by Marte Marte Architects. Photography by Faruk Pinjo, 2020.
Masalla Hütte, by Marte Marte Architects. Photography by Faruk Pinjo, 2020.
