Living in a ravine. Urban resilience and a pattern language in Valparaiso, Chile

Authors

Abstract

Given the complexity of the processes of vernacular urban settlement in Valparaíso, Chile is that it is necessary to develop modes of understanding and analysis of reality that integrate this complexity. In this article, a theoretical-methodological review of two theoretical approaches that allow an approach and understanding to the problem of inhabiting Valparaíso and the formation of urban fabric, its social ties, and characteristic vernacular character is made. On the one hand, the notion of Alexander's language of habitability patterns and on the other, the notion of urban resilience, allowing a more comprehensive study framework that characterizes, describes and understands such complexity. Some studies and their consequent analysis criteria are reviewed that describe the own vernacular habitat in Valparaiso, allowing us an understanding of an integral recognition of their potential as risks, based on their own characteristics and of ravine nature.

Keywords:

ravine, urban resilience, Valparaíso, Vernacular settlement