The Importance of Preserving the Structural Concept of Historic Monuments: The Case of the Quinta San José in Azogues, Ecuador

Abstract

The processes of intervention in architectural heritage assets are preceded by research and technical approaches that, in themselves, are an important challenge for conservation and an essential part for their proper execution. This theme is reaffirmed in the case presented in this document. The Quinta San José in the city of Azogues is a monument of high value for the local community and recognized by the State as national heritage. However, its deteriorated condition, as a result of previous interventions, has caused a high degree of vulnerability and not a few damages to its construction system, with progressive degradation triggered not only by natural causes. In response, the Municipality of Azogues (capital of the Andean province of Cañar, located in south-central Ecuador) promoted the development of a comprehensive recovery proposal, combining wisdom and innovation, preserving its memory, but also characterizing it as a vehicle for sustainable development and applying good practices in heritage management. Quinta San José is the result of a complex conjunction of constructive moments with the use of materials, vernacular technologies and different qualities. Based on its understanding, the presented project proposes specific solutions from consolidations to more radical and complex actions of replacement or re-proposition of elements with better design and resistance qualities, which will be clearly shown as new additions or prostheses that can be read appropriately, without misleading, understanding the heritage itself as a source of creativity.