El balneario de Mondariz. La creación de un lugar (1873-1931)

Abstract

The objective of this research is to reveal the mechanisms in the construction of the spa of Mondariz as a “site”, defining “site” as a historical and existential whole, a symbolized space made of memory and geography. The thesis points out the process, which takes possession of a natural space to make it inhabitable, an anchorage of significance and identity. This has been thought about from a dual perspective: considering its formation as an enterprise and a residential nucleus, as well as the configuration of the elements of its identity as a 19th Century institution and, later on, as a village. On the other hand, from the site studies, the configuration of its space and architecture has been approached as a symbolic form that does not depend exclusively on the socioeconomic circumstances or the architectural context in which its creation and evolution is involved. It is, however, also related with some structures that overcome this context and raise the level of significance of this site.