Spanish traditional architecture abandonment and destruction: an initial analysis of social risks, phenomena, and effects in earthen architecture.

Abstract

Throughout the last century, Europe’s traditional architecture has been affected by a severe and widespread trend of decline and abandonment. These are the result of worldwide cultural, social and technological modifications which have noticeably changed society, lifestyle and economy. These transformations are reflected directly in built heritage and places, often struggling to adapt to the new habits and needs and thus prone to disuse and destruction. The same processes and phenomena also affect intangible culture, such as traditional construction know-how, causing the loss of another essential part of the population’s heritage and identity. Spain is no exception. Due to industrial advances and the rural crisis which brought about major changes in lifestyle, culture and population, the country is now facing various critical situations connected to this trend. These include depopulation, overpopulation, tourist exploitation, and social discredit, which are a stark warning to the conservation of its traditional architecture, now in jeopardy. The following paper focuses on identifying the most important social phenomena within Spain in relation to the transformation, abandonment, and destruction of traditional architecture. Through this analysis, the study aims to provide an initial evaluation of their effects on Spanish earthen traditional constructions and so highlight the crucial aspects to be considered for the formulation of proper and effective strategies for conservation, management and valorisation.