How chiroptera and bells coexist with Belltron automation

Date: June 15, 2024

Until last year the bells of the church of San Francesco in the Municipality of Acquapendente were only played by rope, causing disturbance and damage to the species of chiroptera that had chosen the bell tower of the sixteenth century as a breeding refuge where, between June and July, they give birth to their own cubs.

The bell tower hosts about 700 specimens of Rhinolophus Euryale and of a species of the genus Myotis but there they were disturbed by the continuous ascent and descent of the bells during those summer months of fertilization. In order to protect these species of chiroptera, as required by European legislation and Italian law, the Director of Superintendent and Environmental Management System of the Monte Rufeno Nature Reserve, Massimo Bedini, decided to make changes that did not affect either the soundscape or the natural environment.

On March 29, 2023, the company Belltron was entrusted with the construction of the new bell tower. The three bells on the bell tower, the oldest of which was cast in 1472 by the master bell-ringer Giovanni da Ferentino and put into operation in 1534, have been removed from their stumps and installed on a bunk structure to allow automation with Belltron linear motors.

The characteristics for which these types of motors have been chosen are the high precision in the angle of elevation, the soft start and tear-free brake  and the absence of maintenance because they have no mechanical parts in motion. A software security system also prevents the "bell tipping".

To control the programming of the bells was chosen the model GM-870I bell controller that allows you to activate the melodies in real time or according to the liturgical calendar perpetual. The use of the GM-870I is within everyone’s reach thanks to clear self-guided instructions and an intuitive and accessible Macro Menu. Ten keys allow you to enable or inhibit the programmed sounds, adjust the clock, quickly perform the extraordinary melodies and control the services. Thanks to the Belltron-Cloud app for Belltron customers, the GM-870I can also be remotely monitored. In addition, the connection to the Belltron-Cloud server will allow the constant control of the product by qualified Belltron technicians for assistance, programming and changes to software updates.

In conclusion, the choice of Belltron automation for the sound of the bells of the church of San Francesco in Acquapendente represents a significant step towards the harmonious coexistence between man and nature. Thanks to this innovative technology, it has been possible to preserve not only the rich historical and cultural heritage linked to the ancient bells, but also the delicate ecology that characterizes the bell tower as a refuge for chiroptera during the reproductive period. The joint efforts of the local authorities, the Monte Rufeno Nature Reserve and the Belltron company show how it is possible to reconcile technological development with environmental protection, thus ensuring a sustainable future for both.