An industrial archaeology testimony
The Scoppetta Mill in Pulsano is a rare example of Italian industrial archaeology, excellence in the flour milling industry of Terra d’Otranto between the late nineteenth and the first half of the twentieth century. On the outskirts of the historic center, where the ancient mills of the local feudal lord once stood, the Scoppetta Mill survives as the only testimony of the historical industrial establishments for the production of flour, bread, and derivatives in the area.
The activity, born as an industrial flour mill, was started by Francesco Scoppetta (1853-1918), a merchant of agricultural products originally from Atrani, in the province of Salerno, in 1883. After receiving the gold medal at the first Agricultural-Industrial Sample Exhibition held in Palermo in 1905, Scoppetta decided to expand the production by adding a mechanical pasta factory, and in 1911, he renewed the mill with modern roller machines from the Swiss company Bühler. The new cutting-edge plant in the regional context made it possible to process up to 80 quintals of wheat per day, both soft and hard, a significant quantity for that time.
The building is constructed with local stone blocks and wooden lofts divided into four levels, plus a tower for the cleaning department, warehouses, and areas for retail. The factory, managed by Francesco's heirs, remained in operation until 1970, employing up to 10 workers. It was later abandoned and suffered the consequent damages of time. In 2001, it was placed under protection by the Ministry of Cultural Heritage, saving it from probable demolition. In recent years, there has been an awareness campaign for its preservation and enhancement.
