buildings

Article
Cultural Landscape Assessment: The Rural
Architectural Heritage (13th–17th Centuries) in
Mediterranean Valleys of Marina Alta, Spain
Alba Soler-Estrela
Department of Industrial Systems Engineering and Design, Universitat Jaume I, Avda. Sos Baynat s/n,
12071 Castellón de la Plana, Spain; estrela@uji.es




Received: 28 June 2018; Accepted: 9 October 2018; Published: 11 October 2018


Abstract: Europe’s cultural heritage is a rich and diverse legacy that shows evolution through many
centuries of history. The Mediterranean landscape is the result of a long process of human activity
in the physical environment, which makes the cultural landscape concept remarkable. Despite its
growing interest, most cases are still exposed to different types of threats that can compromise
their permanence. Given cultural variety, its consideration requires a multidisciplinary approach to
provide scientific knowledge and to assess its values from different points of view (e.g., territorial,
historical, technical, artistic, etc.). The valleys of Marina Alta are a most interesting example of
different periods of history, from prehistory to recent rural life. Mountain conditions have favoured
the survival of rural heritage, which is not that affected by the threat of better communicated areas
and can be consider a place of exceptional value. In this context, our paper focuses on houses and
hamlets of a Muslim origin that date back to at least the 13th century according to archival documents.
Scattered in valleys, they are essential to understand historic transformations. They are directly
related to the natural environment, are located in and have adapted to mountains to obtain small
farming areas with small irrigated areas. Given their present state of ruin, an architectural assessment
is needed to recognise the values and threats, and to make proposals for their conservation as a
specific contribution to be considered part of an interdisciplinary vision.

Keywords: heritage conservation; architectural documentation; vernacular architecture;

cultural landscape

1. Research Aim
The complexity of cultural landscapes means that they must be holistically interpreted by
considering many factors. They face several threats and difficult balances have to be struck for
their suitable conservation. Defining their conservation strategies is a difficult task. According to the
recommendation of international charts of cultural heritage, conservation must start with research
work to evaluate the values, threats, and state of preservation of heritage.
The paper aims to conduct architectural studies based on detailed research to assess the
cultural landscape. A complete methodology is proposed, including an architectural survey to define
geometry and characteristics to perform different analyses, e.g., construction systems, materials,
consideration of phases and original typology, applied to a series of cases in a certain geographical area.
The process includes evaluation results and conservation proposals.

Buildings 2018, 8, 140; doi:10.3390/buildings8100140 www.mdpi.com/journal/buildings

Buildings 2018, 8, 140 2 of 13

2. Introduction

2.1. Heritage and Cultural Landscape

The present work fits into the research lines of architectural heritage, specifically of that which,
given its situation, is closely related with the territory in which it is located because it confers character,
and is representative and characteristic of the place.
It is important to start with a conceptual basis, bearing in mind the principles and values described
in the letters and documents that official international organisations hold in reference to the subject.
The first obligatory reference is the Convention Concerning on the Protection of World Cultural
and Natural Heritage [1]. Article 1 considers cultural heritage not only to be monuments. It is
remarkable that it takes into account the fact that the interest in some groups of buildings can be
enhanced because of their place in the landscape from a historical point of view. It also includes the
concept of sites as “ . . . the combined works of nature and man . . . which are of outstanding universal value
from the historical, aesthetic, ethnological or anthropological points of view”.
The European Landscape Convention [2] emphasises the quality and diversity of European
landscapes as a common resource, and points out the importance of cooperating towards
their protection, management and planning. UNESCO defines cultural landscape [3] as the
representation of the combined works of nature and of man “They are illustrative of the evolution
of human society and settlement over time, under the influence of the physical constraints and/or opportunities
presented by their natural environment and of successive social, economic and cultural forces, both external
and internal”.
Besides, some complex values should be considered as Community Identity [4] in relation to the
acknowledgment that cultural landscapes form part of the living memory of past generations and can
provide connections to future generations. Other documents [5] state evocative concepts, such as “the
spirit of place”, which can be intangible, but tangible in buildings, sites, and landscapes.
Apart from recognising its values, there is concern about the scientific knowledge required for its
conservation. It is worth highlighting the documents that incorporate important issues on the ways to
move forward as part of this intention. Common interest is being shown worldwide, and documents
that establish strategies exist [6]. It is commonly accepted that research is the most basic work in the
conservation process, which must start with an inventory of historic sites and in-depth research into
the selected ones.
Survey and Recording are essential parts of the physical research of a place that make detailed
and thematic knowledge possible. Moreover, an assessment aims to determine the values of a site,
its threats, and state of preservation.
In addition to the international context, the regulations and official documents in force in the study
area should be considered. In State terms, the National Plan for Cultural Landscape of the Spanish
Ministry of Education, Culture and Sport should be noted. This instrument is used to safeguard
landscapes of cultural significance. Likewise, the Valencian Spanish Autonomous Community
establishes categories of historic places and cultural parks as spaces that contain significant elements
of cultural heritage, which are integrated into a relevant physical environment. It also proposes
specific tools, such as a Landscape Inventory.

2.2. Geographical and Historic Context

The study area’s geographical framework is constituted by a mountain range that spreads to
the south of the Valencian Community. It is a well-known pre-Baetic domain characterised by strong
limestone folds that shape a series of enclosed valleys around small fluvial watercourses. The dominant
landscape responds to general Mediterranean mountain features, characterised by little irregular
rainfall and rocky marked sloping lands (Figure 1).
Conditions are adverse, which makes farming hard. Much effort has been made to transform
and humanise mountains. After rocks have been removed and transported, they are used to build
Buildings 2018, 8, 140 3 of 13

terrace walls to retain soil and to obtain mountain areas to grow crops on. Human development is
conditioned by the environment it is implemented into, and the land is worked by interventions that
adapt
Buildingsto2018,
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Figure 1. The natural and human landscape in Vall de Gallinera.

Gallinera.

This area has

Conditions arebeen inhabited
adverse, whichfrom makes time immemorial,
farming hard. Much which makes
effort hasitsbeenhistoric
madestratifications
to transform
remarkable,
and humanise asmountains.
are prehistoric
Afterrock-art
rocks have sites.
been In removed
fact, theyand aretransported,
included inthey the are
UNESCO
used toWorldbuild
Heritage List, in the “Rock Art of the Mediterranean Basin on
terrace walls to retain soil and to obtain mountain areas to grow crops on. Human development the Iberian Peninsula” [7], a largeis
group of sites
conditioned bythat provides an exceptional
the environment it is implementedpicture of human
into, and thelife landinisEuropean
worked by Prehistory
interventionsthrough
that
paintings
adapt to the in shallow open-air
natural scale shelters.
of places.
During the Iberian period,
This area has been inhabited occupation
from timetook place on the
immemorial, highest
which makes mountain topsstratifications
its historic where some
settlements
remarkable, were as arefound. During
prehistoric the Roman
rock-art sites. Inperiod,
fact, they thearefew relics found
included in thesuggest
UNESCO certain
Worldalienation
Heritage
given the mountainous nature of these valleys, which are the outskirts of
List, in the “Rock Art of the Mediterranean Basin on the Iberian Peninsula” [7], a large group of sites the Roman city of Dianium.
Barely any significant
that provides material picture
an exceptional remainsofhave beenlife
human found that date back
in European to thesethrough
Prehistory periods. paintings in
shallowTheopen-air
most important
shelters.transformations in the territory have taken place since the Muslim conquest,
with During
the arrival theofIberian
Arab-Berber
period, immigrants
occupation since
tooktheplace
8th century.
on theNew highestsettlements
mountain appeared and spread
tops where some
throughout
settlements the were valleys.
found.They are associated
During the Romanwith reduced
period, irrigated
the few relicsareafoundhaving adapted
suggest to mountains
certain alienation
by constructing
given the mountainousterracesnature
built with stone
of these walls which
valleys, for agrarian
are theproduction
outskirts ofpurposes.
the RomanAtcity theofsame time,
Dianium.
they
Barely responded to defence
any significant needs
material and impressive
remains have beenfortresses
found that were
date strategically
back to these built and located.
periods.
After
The mostthe Christian
importantconquest halfway in
transformations through the 13th
the territory havecentury,
taken the placeMuslim population
since the persisted,
Muslim conquest,
be it under the control of the feudal lord. The valleys are densely
with the arrival of Arab-Berber immigrants since the 8th century. New settlements appeared populated during the Mudejarand
and
spread Morisco periods,
throughout theinvalleys.
numerous Theysmall hamlets that
are associated grouped
with reduced just a few families.
irrigated area having Theadapted
Expulsion to
of the Moriscos
mountains in 1609 was
by constructing a point
terraces of cultural
built with stone rupture
walls that led to depopulation
for agrarian in the territory.
production purposes. At the
Later, the Christian
same time, repopulation
they responded to defencetookneeds
place,and who occupiedfortresses
impressive some existing houses and
were strategically towns,
built and
whereas
located. other places were permanently abandoned. Farming activity continued in the 18th and
19th centuries
After theand areas toconquest
Christian grow crops on among
halfway mountains
through the 13thwerecentury,
gained. Interesting
the Muslim rural samples
population
related
persisted, to farming
be it under and the
sheep-herding
control of the development
feudal lord. appear: terraces,
The valleys arefarmhouses,
densely populatedand cisterns
during [8].the
MudejarThe characteristics of the study
and Morisco periods, area can be small
in numerous directly related that
hamlets with grouped
the Cultural justLandscape definition,
a few families. The
given the combination of human action and nature over time,
Expulsion of the Moriscos in 1609 was a point of cultural rupture that led to depopulation in the and its exceptional value and
representativeness
territory. Later, theinChristian
the history of this land. took
repopulation Indeed, in the
place, whocategories
occupied setsome
out byexisting
the World Heritage
houses and
towns, whereas other places were permanently abandoned. Farming activity continued in the 18th
and 19th centuries and areas to grow crops on among mountains were gained. Interesting rural
samples related to farming and sheep-herding development appear: terraces, farmhouses, and
cisterns [8].
The characteristics of the study area can be directly related with the Cultural Landscape
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and representativeness in the history of this land. Indeed, in the categories set out by the World
Convention [3], we find[3],
Heritage Convention we find an evolved
an “organically landscape”,
“organically characterised
evolved landscape”, by the human transformations
characterised by the human
of a natural environment. It falls in the sub-categories of “continuing landscape”
transformations of a natural environment. It falls in the sub-categories of “continuing because it shows the
landscape”
evolution
because it over
shows time
theassociated with time
evolution over the traditional
associated way
withof life
the which retains
traditional anlife
way of active social
which role an
retains in
contemporary society.
active social role The interestsociety.
in contemporary and complexity of these
The interest lands haveofmotivated
and complexity these landsstudies by public
have motivated
institutions, whichinstitutions,
studies by public have studied elements
which have from different
studied historical
elements times [9,10].
from different historical times [9,10].

2.3.
2.3. The
The Scattered
Scattered Settlements
Settlements
The
The analysis
analysis ofof the
the landscape
landscape and and historical
historical context
context highlights
highlights the
the importance
importance of the Andalusi
of the Andalusi
stage
stage inin the
the origin
origin of
of this
this region’s
region’s characterisation.
characterisation. The
The best-known
best-known architectural
architectural evidence
evidence from
from this
this
period consists of castles or fortresses that are strategically located for defence purposes.
period consists of castles or fortresses that are strategically located for defence purposes. However, it However,
it
is is alsoindispensable
also indispensabletotoobserve
observethethescattered
scatteredsmall
smallsettlements
settlementsand and rural
rural houses
houses when
when assessing
assessing the
the
historical
historical complexity
complexity of of the
the territory.
territory.
From
From thethe wide
wideAl-Andalus
Al-Andaluscontext,context, most
most rural
rural settlements
settlements havehave unfortunately
unfortunately disappeared,
disappeared, and
and only some barely recognisable ruins or archaeological vestiges can be
only some barely recognisable ruins or archaeological vestiges can be found. Nevertheless, the studyfound. Nevertheless,
the
area study area exception
is a notable is a notable becauseexception because
architectural architectural
features features are
are still recognisable. still recognisable.
Although these places
Although these places are in ruins and in danger of disappearing, they are
are in ruins and in danger of disappearing, they are still useful for observing the features still useful for observing
of the
the features
hamlets of the
of the hamlets
Moriscos whoof the Moriscos
inhabited wholands,
these inhabited
whichthese
waslands, which
a point was a point
of cultural of cultural
separation and
separation and abandonment. Some of these places have not been re-inhabited,
abandonment. Some of these places have not been re-inhabited, but have been reused as sheds for but have been reused
as sheds
sheep. for sheep.
Others Others wereby
were repopulated repopulated by Christian
Christian settlers and havesettlers and have
remained remained
inhabited inhabited
to become to
today’s
become
villages today’s
(Figure villages
2). (Figure 2).

Figure 2. View of the current state of a case. Case: L’Atzuvieta, Vall

Vall d’Alcalà.
d’Alcalà.

The
The remaining
remaining architecture
architecture is
is in
in great
great danger
danger of
of extinction,
extinction, something
something which
which would
would entail
entail losing
losing
the memory of more than seven centuries of Muslim culture. Cases require a specific
the memory of more than seven centuries of Muslim culture. Cases require a specific methodologymethodology
for
for their
their research
research that
that is
is in
in line
line with
with other
other research
research works
works ofof architectural
architectural assessment
assessment of
of rural
rural
architecture
architecture [11]
[11] and
and studies
studies for
for cataloging
cataloging and
and dating
dating of
of architectural
architectural heritage
heritage[12].
[12].
 To conduct this study, the geographical area was defined according to its common
characteristics and values. The survey’s research area comprises the valleys of Marina Alta district,
set back from the coast by some 30 km between Alicante and Valencia. They correspond to what are
today’s municipal areas: Vall d’Alcalà, Castell de Castells, Vall d’Ebo, Vall de Gallinera, and Vall de
Laguar,2018,
Buildings all in the province of Alicante, in the Valencian Community, Spain (Figure 3). Nowadays,
8, 140 5 of 13
this land is scarcely populated. The inhabitants in each place form several scattered and small centres.
Populations increase notably at weekends and during holiday periods. Some farming activity
3. Research Method
continues and is based mainly on growing cherry, olive, almond, and carob trees.
3.1. Definition of the Geographical Area
3.2. Historical Study
To conduct this study, the geographical area was defined according to its common characteristics
Interdisciplinarity
and values. The survey’s is research
fundamental to gain cultural
area comprises landscape
the valleys knowledge.
of Marina Moresetspecifically,
Alta district, back from
architectural landscape research needs to incorporate rigorous studies
the coast by some 30 km between Alicante and Valencia. They correspond to what conducted from are
the today’s
history
discipline. areas:
municipal In thisVall
case,d’Alcalà,
the basisCastell
must include knowledge
de Castells, Vall d’Ebo,fromVall
historical periodsand
de Gallinera, in eastern regions
Vall de Laguar,
all in the province of Alicante, in the Valencian Community, Spain (Figure 3). Nowadays, thisout
of Al-Andalus [13]. Specifically for architecture, the interest in this matter has been pointed in
land
some publications [14,15]. Beyond a general vision, it is necessary to bear in mind
is scarcely populated. The inhabitants in each place form several scattered and small centres. the studies of
documentary
Populations references
increase thatatallow
notably weekendsus toand
know theholiday
during list of periods.
cases dated
Some during
farmingtheactivity
periodcontinues
that we
defined [16].
and is based mainly on growing cherry, olive, almond, and carob trees.

Figure 3. Location map of the survey area. Studied cases: Vall d’Alcalà: Atzuvieta, Benialí, Benixarcos,
Figure 3. Location map of the survey area. Studied cases: Vall d’Alcalà: Atzuvieta, Benialí, Benixarcos,
Cariola, La Roca. Castell de Castells: Aialt, Petracos, Vitla. Vall d’Ebo: Cairola, Serra. Vall de Gallinera:
Cariola, La Roca. Castell de Castells: Aialt, Petracos, Vitla. Vall d’Ebo: Cairola, Serra. Vall de Gallinera:
Alcudia, Benimarsoc, Benimoamet, Solana Benissili, Solana Carroja. Vall de Laguar: Isbert.
Alcudia, Benimarsoc, Benimoamet, Solana Benissili, Solana Carroja. Vall de Laguar: Isbert.
3.2. Historical Study
As a whole, documentary sources confirm the existence of at least 44 places that had existed
duringInterdisciplinarity is fundamental
the considered period and in the to gainarea.
study cultural
Somelandscape knowledge.
appear in censuses fromMore specifically,
the 13th century,
architectural landscape research needs to incorporate rigorous studies
but had also existed beforehand, as demonstrated by the Islamic ceramic work encountered. conducted from the
Others
history
are citeddiscipline. Intime
for the first this case, the basis
in censuses must
of the include
14th knowledge
century. from
Of them all, 15historical periods
have remained in eastern
inhabited to
regions of Al-Andalus [13]. Specifically for architecture, the interest in this
the present day, and are constantly developing and are some of our present towns. However, matter has been pointed
this
out
studyin has
some publications
focused [14,15].
on the 29 placesBeyond
that areanogeneral
longervision, it is necessary
inhabited, of which 16 tohave
bear been
in mind the studies
architecturally
of documentary
identified references
and studied. The that allow us
remaining 13to know
have the list of cases
disappeared or havedated
not during the period
been definitely that we
identified.
defined [16].
Based on these data, a list of the places that existed was drawn up. This led to the next phase, that of
As athem
locating whole, documentary
by consulting sources
aerial confirm themaps
photogrammetry existence of at least
and starting 44 places
fieldwork andthat had existed
studies in situ.
during the considered period and in the study area. Some appear in censuses from the 13th century,
but had also existed beforehand, as demonstrated by the Islamic ceramic work encountered. Others are
cited for the first time in censuses of the 14th century. Of them all, 15 have remained inhabited to the
present day, and are constantly developing and are some of our present towns. However, this study has
focused on the 29 places that are no longer inhabited, of which 16 have been architecturally identified
and studied. The remaining 13 have disappeared or have not been definitely identified. Based on
these data, a list of the places that existed was drawn up. This led to the next phase, that of locating
them by consulting aerial photogrammetry maps and starting fieldwork and studies in situ.
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3.3. Architectural Survey

3.3. Architectural Survey
3.3. Architectural Survey
The conducted work falls in line with studies and research about the conservation of
The conducted work falls in line with studies and research about the conservation of
architectural heritage.work
The conducted One of its in
falls fundamental
line with aspects
studies isand
to read architecture
research about the as aconservation
document that of
architectural heritage. One of its fundamental aspects is to read architecture as a document that
preserves
architecturalthe heritage.
traces of itsOne construction history. Directly
of its fundamental aspects is observing buildings is as
to read architecture thea basic sourcethat
document on
preserves the traces of its construction history. Directly observing buildings is the basic source on
which all subsequent
preserves the traces ofwork is done. An history.
its construction architectural survey
Directly is performed
observing by recording
buildings is the basic information
source on
which all subsequent work is done. An architectural survey is performed by recording information
that completely
which all subsequentdescribes
work isthe asset’s
done. physical configuration:
An architectural geometry,
survey is performed by construction systems,
recording information
that completely describes the asset’s physical configuration: geometry, construction systems,
materials, state describes
that completely of conservation,
the asset’setc. It follows
physical a process geometry,
configuration: accordingly with the indications
construction of the
systems, materials,
materials, state of conservation, etc. It follows a process accordingly with the indications of the
international charts [17].
state of conservation, etc. It follows a process accordingly with the indications of the international
international charts [17].
chartsData
[17].collection methods are defined by taking into account certain difficulties given the status
Data collection methods are defined by taking into account certain difficulties given the status
of abandonment,
Data collection ruin, and invasive
methods vegetation.
are defined Theinto
by taking survey was carried
account certain out mainly given
difficulties by usingthedigital
status
of abandonment, ruin, and invasive vegetation. The survey was carried out mainly by using digital
photogrammetry
of abandonment, ruin, (Figure and 4)invasive
and combining traditional
vegetation. techniques
The survey of specific
was carried details,byalong
out mainly usingwith an
digital
photogrammetry (Figure 4) and combining traditional techniques of specific details, along with an
extensive photographic
photogrammetry (Figure report.
4) and Each case wastraditional
combining surveyed and digital models
techniques were
of specific made along
details, to completely
with an
extensive photographic report. Each case was surveyed and digital models were made to completely
define thephotographic
extensive current state. report.
A complete
Each set
caseofwas
plans was drawn,
surveyed starting
and digital with the
models were site plans
made to of hamlets.
completely
define the current state. A complete set of plans was drawn, starting with the site plans of hamlets.
For each
define thebuilding,
current floor
state.plans, sections,
A complete setelevations, anddrawn,
of plans was specificstarting
details with
were the
produced.
site plansThis
of valuable
hamlets.
For each building, floor plans, sections, elevations, and specific details were produced. This valuable
documentation
For each building, takes intoplans,
floor account the abandonment
sections, and specific
elevations, and imminent danger
details of disappearance
were produced. This(Figure 5).
valuable
documentation takes into account the abandonment and imminent danger of disappearance (Figure 5).
It acts as a starting
documentation takespoint to support
into account the analyses
abandonmentand for
andthe understanding
imminent danger ofofdisappearance
heritage and its related
(Figure 5).
It acts as a starting point to support analyses and for the understanding of heritage and its related
values as aanstarting
It acts as essential partto
point ofsupport
the conservation
analyses process.
and for the understanding of heritage and its related
values as an essential part of the conservation process.
values as an essential part of the conservation process.

Figure 4.Example
Example of data
of the the data collection
process process that applied
has been
to allapplied
cases:toto all the cases:
Figure
Figure4. 4. Example of thecollection
data collection that has been
process that has been the
applied Photogrammetry
all the cases:
Photogrammetry
and architectural and architectural
drawing. drawing.
Photogrammetry and architectural drawing.

Figure 5.
Figure Architecturaldrawings.
5. Architectural drawings.(A):
(A): Sections
Sections and
and elevations,
elevations, (B):(B): Floor
Floor plans.
plans. Case:Case: Benialí,
Benialí, Vall
Figure
Vall 5. Architectural drawings. (A): Sections and elevations, (B): Floor plans. Case: Benialí, Vall
d’Alcala.
d’Alcala.
d’Alcala.
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3.4. Specific Studies

The current
current state
stateofofthe
thedepopulated
depopulated villages poses
villages a series
poses of problems
a series as to as
of problems finding out about
to finding out
the original
about architecture.
the original They have
architecture. been
They affected
have been by overlays
affected by over several
overlays overcenturies,
several and have
centuries,
subsequently
and been abandoned
have subsequently and ruined.and
been abandoned Noruined.
adequateNointerpretation of the conserved
adequate interpretation of thearchitecture
conserved
is obvious, and
architecture an in-depth
is obvious, and ananalysis is analysis
in-depth necessary. Thus, specific
is necessary. Thus,studies
specificare added
studies aretoadded
the general
to the
planning.
general planning.

3.4.1. Construction Systems and Building Materials

It is possible
possible to
to read
readthe
thecollected
collecteddata
datatotodiscover
discoverthetheways
waysininwhich
which materials were
materials combined
were combined to
construct dwellings. Much emphasis has been placed on defining the construction
to construct dwellings. Much emphasis has been placed on defining the construction systems that systems that shape
the
shapearchitecture: walls, spans,
the architecture: walls, ceilings, roofs, flooring,
spans, ceilings, renderings,
roofs, flooring, etc. Givenetc.
renderings, their ruinous
Given theirstate, it is
ruinous
necessary to establish the hypothesis for disappeared parts through detailed observations
state, it is necessary to establish the hypothesis for disappeared parts through detailed observations of traces of
missing
of traceselements.
of missing elements.
The construction
construction materials
materialsofofthis
thisvernacular
vernaculararchitecture
architecturearearerelated
relatedtoto
their availability.
their availability.Stone
Stone is
the predominant material in the area, which is combined with some
is the predominant material in the area, which is combined with some earth, lime, earth, lime, cane, and wood.
wood.
In their
theircurrent
currentappearance,
appearance, stone
stone walls
walls prevail
prevail and and different
different fabricsfabrics are observed
are observed (Figure(Figure
6). After6).a
After a thorough
thorough observation
observation of wallofsurfaces,
wall surfaces,
it was it was possible
possible to define
to define different
different kindsofofstone
kinds stonemasonry:
masonry:
rubble stone masonry, coursed rough rough stone
stone masonry,
masonry,and andtapia.
tapia.

Figure 6. Compilation of detected wall fabrics. (A): Rubble stone masonry, (B): Coursed rough stone
masonry (C): Tapia.
Tapia.

In
In the
the studied cases, tapia
studied cases, tapia can
can be
be detected
detected when
when masonry
masonry is is observed
observed laid laid out
out in
in horizontal
horizontal
courses
courses between lime mortar, with a flat surface that maintains the trace of the wooden planks and
between lime mortar, with a flat surface that maintains the trace of the wooden planks and
other
other elements
elements used.
used.Although
Althoughordinary
ordinarymasonry
masonryisisgenerally
generallyobserved,
observed, tapia
thethe technique
tapia techniqueshould
shouldbe
highlighted
be highlighted because it is present
because in theinoriginal
it is present parts and
the original oldest
parts and fabrics. As already
oldest fabrics. known, the
As already material
known, the
used in the tapia process is poured into a formwork and compacted. Then, the
material used in the tapia process is poured into a formwork and compacted. Then, the formwork is formwork is removed
and placed
removed andto placed
continue to building
continue the wall. This
building technique
the wall. is also known
This technique as known
is also rammed asearth,
rammed but earth,
it is a
special
but it istype in thistype
a special areainasthis
the area
mainas material
the mainis not earth.isItnot
material contains
earth.aItlarge proportion
contains a largeofproportion
stone bound of
by
stone bound by mortar, that is very hard given the masterly use of lime, which makesand
mortar, that is very hard given the masterly use of lime, which makes walls very strong durable
walls very
(Figure
strong and7). durable (Figure 7).
Buildings 2018, 8, x FOR PEER REVIEW 8 of 13
Buildings 2018, 8, 140 8 of 13
Buildings 2018, 8, x FOR PEER REVIEW 8 of 13

Figure 7. 7.
Figure (A). Restitution
(A). ofof
Restitution tapia modulation;
tapia (B):
modulation; Putlog
(B): holes
Putlog ofof
holes horizontal timbers.
horizontal timbers.
Figure 7. (A). Restitution of tapia modulation; (B): Putlog holes of horizontal timbers.
3.4.2.
3.4.2.Overlapping
OverlappingPhases
Phases
3.4.2.
TheOverlapping Phases
Thecurrent
currentstate of buildings
state of buildingsmust must
be interpreted from a from
be interpreted diachronic point of view.
a diachronic point Ancient
of view.
dwellings
Ancient have undergone
Thedwellings
current state an intensive
haveofundergone
buildings an remodelling
intensive
must in the 18th
remodelling
be interpreted fromand 19th
ina the centuries
18th
diachronicandpoint asof
19th they haveAncient
centuries
view. asbeen
they
adapted to livestock
have been
dwellings adapted
have pens.
to livestock
undergone pens. remodelling in the 18th and 19th centuries as they have been
an intensive
AAstratigraphical
adapted to livestock analysis
stratigraphical was was
analysis
pens. carried out byout
carried observing the different
by observing the parts and their
different partstemporary
and their
relations.
temporary This allowedanalysis
relations.
A stratigraphical the allowed
This determination of by
some
the determination
was carried out common thephases
of some
observing common
different associated
and with
phases
parts different
associated
their temporary with
construction
different techniques
construction (Figure
techniques 8). Given
(Figure the
8). vernacular
Given the character
vernacular of this
character
relations. This allowed the determination of some common phases associated with different architecture,
of this some
architecture,
constructive
construction techniques
some constructive
techniques have
techniques persisted
have 8).
(Figure over over
persisted
Given time. Although
the time. the
Although
vernacular contributions
the of thisfrom
contributions
character fromall all
periods
architecture,periods toto
some
buildings
buildingsmust
constructivemustbeberespected,
respected,
techniques the
have identification
the overoftime.
identification
persisted ofdifferent
different phases
Althoughphasesallows
the allows usustotoadvance
contributions frominall
advance inknowledge
knowledge
periods to
about
aboutprimitive
buildings mustdwellings
primitive dwellings
be (Figure
respected,(Figure9).9).
the identification of different phases allows us to advance in knowledge
about primitive dwellings (Figure 9).

Construction
Figure8.8.Construction
Figure techniques
techniques related
related toto thetemporary
the temporary hypothesis.
hypothesis. I: I: Tapia,
Tapia, Coursedrough
II:II:Coursed rough
stone
stone masonry,
masonry, III:
III: Rubble
Rubble stone
stone masonry.
masonry.
Figure 8. Construction techniques related to the temporary hypothesis. I: Tapia, II: Coursed rough
stone masonry, III: Rubble stone masonry.
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Figure 9.
Figure (A): The
9. (A): The ruinous
ruinous current
current state.
state. (B):
(B): The
The graphic
graphic restitution
restitution of
of ancient
ancient architecture.
architecture.

3.5. Catalogue
3.5. Catalogue
The deep analysis developed for all the cases of this architectural heritage, according to the
The deep analysis developed for all the cases of this architectural heritage, according to the
specific research method, provides a new architectural study. The documents drawn up constitute a
specific research method, provides a new architectural study. The documents drawn up constitute a
catalogue [18]. This is an extensive work that incorporates all the hamlets in the area, 16 places divided
catalogue [18]. This is an extensive work that incorporates all the hamlets in the area, 16 places
into different groups of houses, with an antiquity proved by the documentary sources.
divided into different groups of houses, with an antiquity proved by the documentary sources.
This catalogue was formed in accordance with the indications to protect architectural
This catalogue was formed in accordance with the indications to protect architectural heritage [19].
heritage [19]. For each case, it includes all the information organised into fields: General data:
For each case, it includes all the information organised into fields: General data: name, placement,
name, placement, historic reference; Architectural study: survey, description, construction systems,
historic reference; Architectural study: survey, description, construction systems, materials, phases;
materials, phases; Synthesis. This means it can be used as a guide for standardised studies,
Synthesis. This means it can be used as a guide for standardised studies, promotes working
promotes working methodology, and makes subsequent publications easier. The documentation is
methodology, and makes subsequent publications easier. The documentation is objective and has its
objective and has its own independent value, which allows consultations and comparisons, making it
own independent value, which allows consultations and comparisons, making it possible to state the
possible to state the features of the original houses.
features of the original houses.
It permits not only the documentation of heritage, but also an assessment as the initial action
It permits not only the documentation of heritage, but also an assessment as the initial action
taken towards its protection. In addition, collected data are a first step to be included in GIS systems,
taken towards its protection. In addition, collected data are a first step to be included in GIS systems,
with the implementation of thematic maps in order to manage all the associated information and to
with the implementation of thematic maps in order to manage all the associated information and to
help update the geographic inventory, as has been made in similar contexts [20].
help update the geographic inventory, as has been made in similar contexts [20].
4. Results
4. Results
Throughout the research process, and after the detailed analysis of an extensive area, comes the
Throughout the research process, and after the detailed analysis of an extensive area, comes the
time to make a joint estimation of the features and values to be preserved. The importance of this
time to make a joint estimation of the features and values to be preserved. The importance of this
cultural landscape has to be evaluated as the area that possibly best preserves the authentic dispersed
cultural landscape has to be evaluated as the area that possibly best preserves the authentic dispersed
Andalusian settlements throughout the Hispanic world. Despite the ruined state of settlements in
Andalusian settlements throughout the Hispanic world. Despite the ruined state of settlements in the
the present-day, they are a material documentation of exceptional value. This study enables the
present-day, they are a material documentation of exceptional value. This study enables the
knowledge of spaces for this unique architecture, which is more than 8 centuries old. During the
knowledge of spaces for this unique architecture, which is more than 8 centuries old. During the
period studied, the architecture shows a series of invariables, such as the use of various types of
period studied, the architecture shows a series of invariables, such as the use of various types of
construction and different technologies in a Muslim-Andalusi cultural concept that extends to the
construction and different technologies in a Muslim-Andalusi cultural concept that extends to the
Mudejar and Morisco periods.
Mudejar and Morisco periods.
The contribution of architectural research, through the analysis of all the data in the catalogue,
The contribution of architectural research, through the analysis of all the data in the catalogue,
makes it possible to determine original architectural characteristics, specifically regarding wall fabrics
makes it possible to determine original architectural characteristics, specifically regarding wall
and typology (Figure 10).
fabrics and typology (Figure 10).
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Figure
Figure 10. Sections, elevations,
10. Sections, elevations, and
and floor
floor plans
plans with
with detected
detected wall
wall fabrics.
fabrics. Selected
Selected cases. Vall d’Alcalà
cases. Vall d’Alcalà
(VA):
(VA):11Atzuvieta
Atzuvieta(1), Benialí
(1), (2),(2),
Benialí Cariola (3). Castell
Cariola de Castells
(3). Castell (CC): (CC):
de Castells Aialt (1). Vall
Aialt d’Ebo
(1). Vall(VE):
d’EboCairola
(VE):
(1). Vall de Gallinera (VG): Solana Benissili (1). Vall de Laguar (VL): Isbert (1).
Cairola (1). Vall de Gallinera (VG): Solana Benissili (1). Vall de Laguar (VL): Isbert (1).
Buildings 2018, 8, 140 11 of 13

4.1. Wall Fabrics

The tapia technique should be highlighted because the study confirms that it is used only in
those places that date back to before the 13th century, and it was not used later than 1609 in this area.
For this reason, it is important to consider this technique because it indicates authenticity, and allows
one to differentiate among the original architecture’s features.
Based on the remains of walls, the forming system can be defined quite precisely. The dimensions
and the way of arranging the main components are repeated, which have been detailed. The habitual
dimensions of each wall section are: 165 cm long, 80 cm high, 45 cm thick. Dimensions of 260, 110,
and 45 cm, respectively, have been exceptionally observed in localised parts. It is an input to the
knowledge of the mensiochronological studies. This form of wall is also directly related with that used
in the fortresses found in the area, which are more accurately dated [21].

4.2. Typology
Architectural original spaces and typologies have been determined for the first time after the
reading of the different phases. The basic typology of a dwelling is an elongated space between parallel
loading walls. The best preserved cases attest that they were 2-storeyed houses with a sloped roof.
The interior width measures between 2.55 m and 2.80 m in the original rooms. This is remarkable
because widths are greater, more than 3 m, in subsequent phases.
These units are grouped into different forms in conjunction with perimeter walls, which demarcate
a large unroofed enclosure or patio. Settlements were formed by a few houses situated near to
one another, but not attached. On a territorial scale, they are scattered in valleys in relation to
agricultural use, which outlines a humanised landscape.

4.3. Values
The conducted study confirms the interest and exceptionality of the rural dwellings that date back
to these centuries. This humble heritage has managed to survive and is essential for understanding
the landscape of this historic time.
Given the nature of the cases, values are related to their setting and territorial scale and,
by respecting the characteristics of each individual element, they must be considered with the
landscape to be substantial parts of a whole. They form part of a set of elements: fortresses,
irrigation systems, cultivation terraces, paths, and ways.
The characteristics of these settlements, which are spread out through the region, demonstrate the
relationship between architecture and landscape. The Cultural Landscape concept fits perfectly as the
combined work of nature and humankind by expressing the intimate relationship between peoples
and their natural environment over time [22,23].

4.4. Proposals
Regarding the cases under study, despite their doubtless values, most of them do not receive
suitable legal protection. Although certain steps have been taken to protect them in some cases,
they are currently endangered and face threats of being transformed or eliminated. In the overall
consideration, the first action proposals must address them being recognised and protected.
Given the current decayed state of this representative architectural heritage, the need to
protect arises. Interventions must solve serious stability and conservation problems by respecting
the original architectural design, materials, construction systems, and techniques, such as tapia,
to simultaneously safeguard material remains and their value. The proposal for specific cases has
been studied [24]. As the state of conservation and problems are similar in the different studied cases,
general criteria have been made.
The first objective of intervention is to safeguard. Buildings must be freed of the vegetation
that affects them. In a ruined state, the disappearance of roofs and floors has worryingly reduced
Buildings 2018, 8, 140 12 of 13

the safety and stability of walls. To halt the deterioration process, consolidation and stabilisation
are needed. At the same time, demolishing missing parts hinders the perception of the original
configuration of spaces. Here, the aim is to avoid losing elements that can help us to understand the
Architectural type.
Another objective is to respect materials and construction systems by preserving the historic value,
and not alter any trace of original fabrics or any sign of overlapping periods. This is essential for
reading a monument as if it were a document. The reconstruction of missing parts must be reduced to
what is strictly necessary. It has to be integrated with the whole, but must remain distinguishable from
the original work so that restoration does not become a falsification.
Another main objective is to facilitate public access by establishing an itinerary to guarantee
the safety of visitors and to facilitate observations and ensure respect for the monument. The aim
here is to recover the historical dimension of the rural settlement by remembering the houses that
have disappeared, and by recreating the immediate environment. To understand the place and its
relationship with other historical sites, viewpoints are proposed to direct the vision towards cultural
or natural landmarks and to enjoy scenic views.

5. Conclusions
Cultural landscape represents the combined work of humans and nature, and is a type of very
complex patrimony that needs multidisciplinary interpretation. In the considered area, the rural
architecture that dates back centuries provides clues to help to interpret the territory’s current
configuration. Destruction, alteration, and scarce appraisal and appreciation due to ignorance endanger
the site and facilitate its disappearance.
An architectural assessment methodology is proposed. Research starts with documentation and
evaluation of the historical setting, allowing the location of the remaining architecture in the territory.
The study is based on direct observations and analysing the conserved outward appearance of materials.
A complete survey has been performed, architectural traces have been studied, and the most significant
elements have been valued. This work proposes implementing inventories and catalogues to collect
objective information and to facilitate diffusion and international exchange.
The study confirms the interest of the cases. This area of Mediterranean valleys retains a unique
assemblage of old villages with cultural heritage value in relation to the Muslim period. These buildings
have accrued meaning over time. This paper attempts to contribute to the safeguarding of these cultural
heritage places for present and future generations.

Funding: This research received no external funding.

Conflicts of Interest: The authors declare no conflict of interest.

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