Notes towards a project for the quarries landscape of Estremoz Anticline

Abstract

The area known as Estremoz anticline, in central Alentejo, Portugal, is well known for its marble quarries since the roman period. The industrial activity since mid 20th century resulted in a violently humanized landscape. Until recently the investigation regarding these marble quarries has been typically related with the rationalization of the industrial activity or the environmental issues that arise. This paper will try to take a different perspective on the subject, using the concepts of cultural landscape and industrial heritage.The validation of the hypothesis that this landscape is part of the cultural heritage of its local community must start with the analysis of similar examples worldwide. This paper address three such examples: Caserta's quarries, the Balearic Islands, and Edward Butynsky's photographic investigation. Finally the article proposes a conceptual framework to further research about the subject, aimed at a territorial architectural project for the area.

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