In the sun-drenched landscapes of southern Portugal, a unique architectural treasure lies hidden, waiting to be rediscovered and celebrated. Brick vaults, a traditional building system, have been used for centuries in the region, creating sustainable structures that have stood the test of time. Now, a groundbreaking study led by Mafalda Pacheco is shedding new light on these vernacular vaulted religious buildings, offering a blueprint for sustainable development and cultural tourism that could revolutionize the energy sector’s approach to heritage preservation.
Pacheco’s research, conducted under the Vaulted South project, focuses on the Baixo Alentejo sub-region, where vaulted buildings are a testament to local craftsmanship and religious heritage. These structures, ranging from churches to monasteries, embody a blend of erudite and popular contexts, carrying immense material and immaterial value. “These vaulted buildings are not just structures; they are repositories of traditional knowledge, cultural practices, and community identity,” Pacheco explains. Her work, published in the journal Cidades, Comunidades e Território, which translates to Cities, Communities and Territory, aims to harness the power of digital tools to promote these buildings’ understanding, dissemination, and exploration.
At the heart of Pacheco’s approach is the use of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) to create thematic itineraries and conduct cluster analysis. By georeferencing data from vaulted buildings in Portel, Moura, and Serpa, Pacheco has developed a comprehensive GIS environment that facilitates statistical analysis and the creation of cultural routes. This innovative use of technology allows for a deeper understanding of the buildings’ potential and cultural values, fostering a sustainable territorial development model that could be replicated in other regions.
The implications of this research for the energy sector are profound. As the world grapples with the challenges of climate change and sustainability, the lessons from these vernacular vaulted buildings offer a roadmap for the future. Their use of local materials and traditional techniques provides a model for sustainable construction, while their cultural significance offers a unique opportunity for heritage tourism. By integrating these buildings into cultural itineraries, communities can benefit from increased tourism, while also preserving their architectural heritage and promoting sustainable development.
Moreover, the use of GIS in this research opens up new possibilities for the energy sector. By mapping and analyzing the distribution of these buildings, energy providers can identify areas for potential renewable energy integration, such as solar or wind power. The cultural routes created through this research can also serve as models for sustainable energy infrastructure, demonstrating how traditional architecture and modern technology can coexist and complement each other.
Pacheco’s work is not just about preserving the past; it’s about shaping the future. By highlighting the potential of vernacular vaulted religious buildings, she is paving the way for a new approach to heritage preservation and sustainable development. As the energy sector continues to evolve, the lessons from these buildings and the innovative use of GIS in this research could play a crucial role in creating a more sustainable and culturally rich future. The research underscores the importance of preserving and promoting these architectural treasures, not just for their historical value, but for their potential to drive sustainable development and cultural tourism in the region and beyond.