Resgate histórico da paisagem urbana e das praças do Serro - MG

Abstract

The history of the State of Minas Gerais, Brazil, is directly connected to the construction of roads by gold and diamond explorers, such as the one known as the Royal Road. Studying the gardens built in cities located along this road, many of which have a historical value, helps understand and appreciate their history. Therefore, it is possible to connect past and present, adding great value to the cultural-architectural set, promoting tourism, preserving the environment, and, above all, valorizing the history of the society through gardens. The main questions in this research were how these gardens emerged in the cities founded along the Royal Road, and how society appropriated and modified them throughout time; the gardens and landscape of Serro were used to answer these questions. The methodology consisted of inventive analysis, associated to the subjective analysis, regarding the preservation of gardens and historical heritage. The study on the evolution of this area is based on the analysis of the morphological transformations to the landscape and to the parks, as the city developed. Serro used to be the seat of one of the four districts of Minas Gerais. There are still many features of the 18 th century villas in the city, such as an abundance of Baroque details and characteristics. Steep hills arrange the houses as an amphitheater and the combination of fruit and vegetable gardens creates an impressive green view. The city grew around its many churches, and the churchyards and squares (named largos) made room for today’s public parks in the city, such as the Largo da Matriz, Largo do Rosário and Largo da Cavalhada, currently João Pinheiro Square, which is now the main spot for meetings and cultural demonstrations in town. Most parks in Serro have monuments with historical and cultural value for the population and are constantly being used as a stage for events. None of the squares is properly arborized, and the arrangement of the plants lacks planning or study. The landscape of Serro was preserved until the 1980s, when the improper occupation of backyards and open spaces began. The local government has been financing restoration projects in several of these areas, but there is a need for studies regarding the use of ornamental species and suitable trees for urban forestry