Rural architecture in Umbria: brick diaphragms

Brick architecture again – We are not talking about architectural masterpieces (see previous post on Palazzo Carignano) here but how brick (laterizio) was used in the rural, traditional architecture in the Umbrian and Tuscan farmhouse. Bricks or pianelle (thinner brick of 2,5cm.) were, in fact, often used as diaphragms in barns, sheds and in general wherever there was need to partially close a space but let the air flow, in order to provide ventilation to hay, wheat or any other crop that had to be stored inside. Some of these solutions are particularly creative with a variety of patterns and, as a result, our countryside is dotted with these interesting architectural features.