The Risks to Vernacular Architecture Associated with Depopulation in the Valencian Community, Spain

Depopulation is the most widespread demographic phenomenon in Spain. In addition, the areas affected by depopulation hold the greatest proportion of vernacular architecture in the country, and this may in turn lead to a risk for conservation. This research identifies the risks presented by depopulation for conservation of vernacular architecture, which can be classified into three categories: sociocultural risks; physical and material risks; and risks in the management of vernacular architecture. The methodology used follows a two-fold bibliographical review of articles and books. Texts on demographics, culture and society were analysed, paying particular attention to mentions of architecture and housing, while a review of studies on vernacular architecture and heritage focused on aspects relating to depopulation, migration, and cultural loss. Based on these results, a methodology was developed to analyse the level of risk to vernacular architecture in areas with population loss. To do this, the risks identified in the bibliographical review were transformed into quantifiable vulnerability factors. A methodology was created to analyse the level of risk of vernacular architecture by vulnerability factor. This methodology has been contrasted and perfected in 180 municipalities affected by depopulation in the Comunidad Valenciana, for possible application in other similar contexts, both in Spain and abroad.