The native woods in the vernacular architecture of the Puna region in Jujuy, Argentina. Continuity or replacement?

Abstract

Introduction and objectives: Earthen construction techniques have great relevance for the production of architecture in the Andean area.  They involve a set of diverse practices and knowledge, integrated into a building culture that is inseparable from other aspects of social life. Among the raw materials of mineral, animal or vegetable origin and the multiple resolutions for each part of the house, wood is fundamental for the structure of the ceiling. The main wooden vegetable resources of the region, queñoa (Polylepis tomentella) and especially cardon (Trichocereus atacamensis) play a leading role. The aim of the present work is to study queñoa and cardon wood in contemporary architecture. 

M&M: The research was conducted in the department of Susques, Jujuy, using a qualitative ethnobotany approach, based on ethnographic methodology. We work permanently with 15 local collaborators,  reaching around 100 persons in group instances.

Results: Show that the use of these woods has decreased in recent years, but their relevance in local construction practices has not declined in the accounts of the villagers. They also show that the causes include provincial laws prohibiting their use, the shorter time spent in the field resulting in the interruption of wood harvesting and the introduction of materials from the lowlands. 

Conclusion: The conservation of the architectural heritage implies the continuity of certain practices and involves specific materialities, its identification and knowledge allow its appreciation and the search for strategies for its permanence.