VerSus+, heritage for people: Transmit vernacular knowledge to foster a sustainable architecture

Abstract

This paper presents the results of the project 'Versus-Heritage for People', funded by the EU's Creative Europe programme. The main objective of the project was to actively involve and raise awareness among a wide audience of the value of vernacular knowledge in shaping more sustainable and resilient development models. The material and immaterial elements that make up a vernacular heritage (including local materials, construction methods, models of living and social interaction, technical and ecological knowledge for the management of territories, natural resources, settlements, etc.) have enormous potential for generating forward-looking models that can improve the environmental and social quality of our habitats, foster a sense of identity and belonging, and relate in a balanced way to the capacities of our planet. The paper explores strategies and tools for managing and transmitting the knowledge and values associated with vernacular heritage. The result is the collaboration of the five academic institutions involved in the project - Universitat Politècnica de València as coordinator (ES), University of Florence (IT), University of Cagliari (IT), CRAterre-ENSAG (FR) and Universidade Portucalense (PT).