Rovereto’s Decline: From Flourishing Town to Solitary Micro-Village

The historic center of Rovereto suffers from a complex series of problems. ” Rovereto — writes Ivan Maria Gozzi in a letter — has a smaller historic center than the Quercia stadium.”

Description of the city and climate

It is a micro city stretched at the foot of the mountain in an enviable position. The climate is dry, there is no stagnant air, no fog, so there is no atmospheric pollution, making it an ideal place to live.

Commercial situation and habits

Until 1995, there were stores of every kind; commerce flourished and the streets were lively with residents and tourists heading toward the historic center. I love solitude, after reading the electoral programs of the Margheritos, sure of their victory and confident they would obey the orders given by the desolate strategists from Bologna, I, along with my companions, moved from the crowded Isera to the historic center of Rovereto.

Hopes and disillusionment

I was certain that Cervellati and the Oikos militants would quickly depopulate the city, turning it into an uninhabited wasteland. I was a sure predictor: I thank the council for fulfilling all my expectations.

Current situation and comments

Now I leave the house in the morning knowing I might meet people, but when I do at dusk, I risk encountering someone. Finally, dozens of stores have been closed, and I am sure that with these politicians in power, many others will shut soon. How wonderful!

Political decisions and statements

But dear politicians, get your act together. On January 3rd, Dr. Bruschetti informs us by mail that the pollution that never actually existed has now been eradicated. On January 19th, the formidable art critic Professor Cessali tells us that the “Gelmini” cure now allows us to breathe deeply.

Reactions and denials

I know these proclamations are outright lies, and so does attentive strategist Corrado Corradini, who on January 22nd in the Adige newspaper denies them and states: “Too much dust in the air.” He calls for a ban on cars and predicts the closure of via Benacense.

Contrasting positions and opinions

Even Mr. Paolo Cova gets involved, and on January 24th, he criticizes the members of the Committee harshly. Cova is right: those who disagree with him are: “biased, irresponsible, demagogic.”

Conclusion and future wishes

I, who support Cova, ask: “What do the wealthy merchants of the center want?” Do they perhaps want to continue doing commerce? Do they perhaps want to keep doing their jobs? Horror!

Last wishes

Governors of this micro-village, do not lower your guard. I beg you! Keep punishing car owners. Soon — concludes Ivan Maria Gozzi — everything will be deserted, and then, confident that I can stroll through Rovereto without encountering a soul, I will request residency to live in this pleasant place in blissful solitude.”