Reading the landscape

Walking along the main line of Ribeirão Tatu in Limeira/SP.

Abstract

Objective –  to understand the landscape construction of Limeira, São Paulo, based on the Ribeirão Tatu case study. This study analyzes the current dynamics of the landscape and the overlapping layers of human activities that have occurred throughout its history, as well as its relationship with the urban fabric, whose historical, social, political, and economic idiosyncrasies have affected this construction.

Methodology – the methodological procedures adopted included bibliographical and documentary research (legislation, maps, plans and projects, newspaper archives); field research to identify spatial and environmental structures; observation of use, behavior, and activities; photographic surveys, essential for interpreting the landscape; and questionnaires and interviews with municipal administration technicians.

Originality/Relevance – the valley bottom landscapes are vitally important to the urban fabric, and understanding the various human and natural layers that intertwine to form the palimpsest of human history in the territory helps to better understand how to interact with the landscape.

Results – this interweaving of the theoretical framework with the analysis of the collected data and information enabled the creation of landscape interpretation maps ("layers") to demarcate potentials and problems. The results demonstrated that the stream, despite being degraded and segregated from the urban fabric, is vibrant and attracts people seeking a sense of belonging to the space.

Theoretical/Methodological Contributions – a new perspective on landscape interpretation, based on Besse's theory (2014).

Social and Environmental Contributions – the study aims to identify how human aspects (social, economic, political, etc.) intertwine with natural aspects.