Analysis of the urban morphology of Macapá´s wetlands (ressacas): the case of Congós neighborhood

Abstract

This research approach on the study of urban form was based on the concepts of M. R. G. Conzen (1960) that founded the studies of the English School of Urban Morphology. The research aims to analyze the urban development of the wetlands (ressacas) of the city of Macapá, Amapá, with an emphasis on Congós neighborhood, where a complex of two wetlands areas is found: Ressaca Chico Dias and Ressaca do Beirol. Analyzing Congós neighborhood and its respective wetlands areas, two morphological regions were identified, each one with specific characteristics: one in a non-flooded area with a regular occupation pattern and the other on the wetlands areas with an on stilts occupation pattern. From the developed maps it is observed the expansion of the Cartesian urban form along with the expansion of the city. On the wetlands this model becomes more organic, presenting a design similar to a herringbone pattern or even plants, such as ferns.