Concepción and Valdivia: A Utilitarian Utilitarian Vision of the Natural

Abstract

Concepcion and Valdivia constitute two types of relation between the urban and the natural environment. Comparative analysis is used in order to explore the factors of urban expansion. The results of the research reveal the influence of the colonial layout in the way both cities relate to their natural environment. In Concepcion, the colonial model appears to have inhibited –until the end of the 20th century– the valorisation of the landscape. Conversely, in Valdivia, the ‘coastal’ variation of the model would have favoured -since the foundation of the city- the enhancement of the riverbanks. On the other hand –in both cities– the utilitarian view of the landscape contributed to the occupation of risky areas and the modification of the site. That is how, natural elements viewed as ‘useful’ to urban objectives, were enhanced by the urban fabric. Conversely, other elements that represented a limit to urban objectives were modified by the city form.