Serra de tramontana cultural landscape. Recognition, plan and design of a heritage for humanity

Abstract

The recognition of Serra de Tramontana as a World Heritage Site was a desire of the local community on the island of Mallorca in Spain. Historically, the Serra was characterized by the interactions between the different cultures that sailed in the Mediterranean Sea, especially the Arabs, who introduced hydraulic systems, guaranteeing the implantation of the settlements through the infrastructure of paths, buildings, irrigation channels with stone walls. Ensuring the protection of such a complex and unique landscape demanded the elaboration of a Master Plan, aimed at the analysis, design and management of the landscape, with actions and strategies linking development and heritage resources. This research presents the main concepts, methodologies, processes of elaboration and management of that Master Plan, which proved to be a judicious document on human adaptation in the territory, presenting heritage assets together with guidelines for sustainable development, focused on the protection of local culture and continuity of the traditional way of life, as well as the survival of native species, and preservation of biodiversity as a whole.

Keywords: Cultural landscape, territorial planning, heritage, economic development