CULTURAL HERITAGE TRANSFORMATION FROM LANDSCAPE PERCEPTION HERITAGE. THE MEXICAN TOWN OF SANTA FE CASE

Abstract

Federal Mexican authorities have planned the transformation of the military camp facilities (1-F), along with the Ermita and the Santa Fe’s natural springs, into an urban park development of great importance for the western region of México City. This military camp, heart of the intervention, was settled due to a relocation of a Gunpowder Factory from Chapultepec area to Santa Fe back in the 18th century. The choice of the new location was based on some factors like: security and far away conditions; the topography of the ravines which formed a natural forest barrier to access and proximity to the river which provided abundant water necessary for gunpowder production. The Ermita’s construction in the 17th century is also related with the natural attributes of the place. The current initiative of transformation of this historic landmark considers the promotion of original territorial heritage values, the enhancement of public accessibility and the boost of a diverse cultural life, particularly among the inhabitants which dwell in such a rich but economically marginalized area. The objective of the present article is to analyze the Government's purpose at the place, in light of the inhabitants' narratives about the space. We will reflect on the conceptual approaches, social contexts, institutional practices integrated as guidelines, and the possible territory configuration as heritage landscape.