The rehabilitation of built heritage in Porto's historic city centre

: applicable concepts for a conservation approach

Abstract

This dissertation explores the preservation of cultural heritage in Porto's historic city centre, focusing on centenary buildings and their rehabilitation practices. By examining theories, principles, and interdisciplinary perspectives in heritage conservation, this work sheds light on guiding principles that promote sustainable approaches in this type of unlisted heritage. The analysis of Charters, Principles, and European guidelines highlights the convergence of visions on the theme. The aim is to understand why these valuable structures often undergo alterations that compromise their authenticity and intrinsic values, thus underestimating the embodied historical values and collective memory. Portuguese legislation recognizes the importance of preserving unlisted buildings, with recent positive steps taken towards their protection. However, work must still be undertaken to establish a normative framework for their conservation. Collaboration among professionals is crucial in combating façadism, and digital technologies are now essential for conservation efforts. In general, this study emphasizes the importance of conservation in preserving cultural identity, fostering economic and social well-being, and ensuring environmental sustainability. This dissertation is part of the project “HAC4CG - Heritage, Art, Creation for Climate change. Living the city: catalysing spaces for learning, creation and action towards climate change”, with the city of Porto as a local case study. In research line 1 - Engaging Citizens through heritage conservation, this work falls under the WP3 - Heritage Observatory, which aimed to survey the transformations in Porto's urban fabric and built heritage due to increasing tourist pressure.

Date of Award	24 Oct 2023
Original language	English
Awarding Institution	Universidade Católica Portuguesa
Supervisor	Eduarda Vieira (Supervisor) & João Miranda Guedes (Co-Supervisor)