Integration of rural architectural heritage: The case of the alquerías in northern Valencia

Abstract

[EN] This work deals with the conservation and integration of the so-called “alquerías”, the traditional rural houses scattered in the historical agricultural landscape of the Huerta de Valencia, which has been surrounding this Spanish city for centuries. The first alquerías were built during the Medieval Muslim period, for farming and housing purposes. Their uses have been evolving throughout history, following the agriculture and cultural changes, thus resulting in a great diversity of shapes, sizes and types. Today, these buildings are considered as an important part of the local heritage of Valencia, testifying of the traditional way of life and construction. However, the urban growth and modern lifestyle have not been always respectful towards the alquerías: many of them have been demolished to make way for new neighborhoods. Others have been sadly abandoned and left in a state of ruin. Cases of absorption have experienced unequal situations, from forced accommodation to full integration. In general, the remaining alquerías are threatened and require protection actions, as well as a quality integration to the urban fabric in order to prevent their deterioration, marginalization and even destruction.This research work consists in an analytical study of the alquerías of four northern districts of Valencia –Benicalap, Rascanya, La Saïdia and Benimaclet– aiming at providing an insight of the current situation regarding the issue of rural heritage integrated into urban fabrics. General conclusions will be extracted from a statistical study of the collected data, and highlights will be given to the good practices’ cases as potential solutions for the future integration projects.