Resumen

MESTRE, Víctor. Traditional construction in mediterranean Portugal. Apuntes [online]. 2007, vol.20, n.2, pp.278-285. ISSN 1657-9763.

Portuguese traditional architecture is at a stage that one could consider as expectant, in the measure that, if on the one hand there is a recognition of its architectonical qualities linked to tradition and to landscape integration, on the other hand its adaptability to contemporary times has been inefficient. The general population doesn't give it much credit, and doesn't hesitate to replace this heritage by a new reality, with no feelings of loss. The probable cause of the permanency of so much of this heritage, both individual and in rural groups, is based on two main factors, emigration to new cities and other countries, and economical difficulties in the ones who stay. Nevertheless, a new hope seems to be emerging after 30 years of persistent work of a very few whose dedication to traditional architecture has been marked by local research, through careful register of archaeological, anthropological, architectural evidence, amongst other disciplines and, lately, through the careful investigation of materials and technologies with the resources of universities and their laboratories. In parallel, reference editions have emerged. Besides the excellent interventions in conservation, restoration, and rehabilitation of buildings of traditional technology and expression, other examples of contemporary architecture that uses traditional materials and technology, a lot of them (re) establishing equilibriums in the field of physical integration, both in rural and urban areas.

Palabras clave : Mediterranean; traditional architecture; adobe; half-timbered; brick; research; clay civilization; traditional crafts.

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