Reliquia, Reliquat, Road remnants: Unveiling spatial consequences and regulations behind expropriation for public utility

The concept of expropriation for public utility has ancient origins, stemming from Roman law and evolving over centuries as societies developed formal governance and land ownership systems. This mechanism has played a crucial role in the extensive infrastructural development of many European cities, particularly during the 20th century. Frequently, however, the area expropriated does not align precisely with the land impacted by the intended transformation. This discrepancy, often called “residual space,” is known in many countries as a “road relic” (from Latin Reliquia, French Reliquat, Italian Reliquato).

This contribution seeks to illuminate the concept of “relics” by exploring the deeper meaning behind this term and the historical context from which it derives. It analyzes the term’s connotations, drawing parallels with similar concepts in territorial and landscape studies, such as in De Sola Morales’ "terrain vague," Clement’s "third landscape," Barbieri’s "infraspace," in the French "Paysage de la friche," and Alan Berger’s "Drosscape." Additionally, it examines the origins of these spaces by investigating the inefficiencies in infrastructures construction and situates them within the broader notion of space, highlighting the limitations imposed by development models.

These infrastructural “frictions” reflect broader regulatory challenges and variations in how jurisdictions manage and reintegrate these underutilized spaces into urban landscapes. By uncovering the latent potential of these road remnants, this study offers a comparative analysis of expropriation practices, and their spatial consequences, across various European case studies. It aims to challenge conventional perceptions of these spaces as mere byproducts of infrastructure projects.

Ultimately, the research advocates for a reimagined approach to expropriation—one that not only addresses the needs of infrastructure expansion but also fosters a more integrated, holistic approach to urban landscape stewardship.