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Maritime hospices began to be created along the Italian coast during the second half of the nineteenth century. The architectural model of the hospital was undoubtedly the typological reference for the actors dealing with this new building type. But at the same time it is clear that for these buildings, designed at the seaside for looking after children suffering from tuberculosis, these actors attempted to avoid the rather sinister and depressing aspects characteristic of health establishments. These buildings consequently play an essential rôle in the history of holiday colonies. The earliest of these colonies were inspired by the architectural choices, the therapeutical aims and the technological innovations first developed in these maritime hospices.