Technical protocols of heritage preservation from risk and vulnerability analysis. The case of the vernacular architecture of Quingeo (Azuay, Ecuador)

2.1. Preliminary Phase

Stage 1: Data collection

 ⌅

It begins with the method of bibliographic analysis of both theoretical foundations and the study territory to provide an expanded overview. Subsequently, field observation is applied to understand the territory from its material, immaterial, and landscape pre-existences. Two record forms are applied to focus on: 1) urban-architectural context, and 2) landscape-environmental context. These include the following factors of analysis: historical-cultural, urban-architectural, constructive-technological, and landscape-environmental.

The qualitative focus group technique is also used, addressed to a group of 6 to 10 people from the community above (downtown Quingeo). According to the methodology proposed by Krueger (1997)Krueger, R. A. 1997: Moderating Focus Groups (Focus Group Kit). Sage Publications, New York. https://doi.org/10.4135/9781483328133 , the recommended number of participants should not exceed 10, nor be less than 6, so that the opinions of the focus group, can be obtained and systematized effectively and objectively to define, monitor, and expand the problem from this perspective. Likewise, it seeks to establish social relevance in developing and conserving heritage assets. A three-level structured interview was applied; 1) urban-architectural and landscape-level; 2) socioeconomic and cultural level; and 3) heritage management and conservation level, the results of which are shown in detail in Chart 2.

Chart 2.  Application of focus group in the downtown Quingeo community.

Lastly, the specific selection of buildings is made through an extended architectural and heritage valuation. The Instructions for registration and inventory of real estate are utilized, as well as the Technical Regulations for the Inventory, Declaration, Delimitation, De-linking (INPC 2019Instituto Nacional de Patrimonio Cultural - INPC. 2019: Normativa técnica para el inventario, declaratoria, delimitación, desvinculación y pérdida de calidad de bienes inmuebles patrimoniales. Ediecuatorial, Quito, [online] https://contenidos.culturaypatrimonio.gob.ec/wp-content/uploads/ACUERDO-094-2019-Normativa-tecnica-de-bienes-inmuebles-patrimoniales.pdf [accessed 16/05/2021].), and Loss of quality of heritage real estate of the National Institute of Cultural Heritage (INPC, in Spanish) (INPC 2011: 62-71Instituto Nacional de Patrimonio Cultural - INPC. 2011: Instructivo para fichas de inventario de bienes culturales inmuebles. Instituto Nacional de Patrimonio Cultural y Municipio del Distrito Metropolitano de Quito, Quito, [online] https://www.patrimoniocultural.gob.ec/instructivo-para-fichas-de-inventario-de-inmueble/ [accessed 10/07/2021].). However, technical, historical, urban-architectural, aesthetic-formal, functional, technological, social, and landscape parameters are included.

The set of resources focuses on two levels: 1) urban-architectural sections and 2) buildings. In the first case, the eight urban-architectural sections that constitute the head Parish of Quingeo are included, allowing us to determine the one with the greatest potential according to the research objectives. Subsequently, in this urban-architectural section, the buildings that comprise it are analyzed, and three priority case studies are selected for analysis. On the other hand, the highest score is established for selecting the urban-architectural section and the buildings through a high, medium, and low score. In both cases, the highest valuation range/grade of protection (high heritage value with absolute protection) is considered (Chart 3).

Chart 3.  Definition of the study cases (amplified valuation).

Stage 2: Application of mural stratigraphy

 ⌅

From the three case studies, the Wall Stratigraphy method established by Parenti (1997)Parenti, R. 1997: “Archeologia dell’architettura: bilancio della situazione Toscana,” Archeologia dell’architettura, II, pp.175-180. http://digital.casalini.it/10.1400/236194 and Doglioni (1997Doglioni, F. 1997: “Conseguenze del restauro sulla stratificazione e contributi della stratigrafia al restauro,” Archeologia dell’architettura, II, pp. 207-213. http://digital.casalini.it/10.1400/236199 , 2002)Doglioni, F. 2002: “Ruolo e salvaguardia delle evidenze stratigrafiche nel progetto e nel cantiere di restauro,” Arqueología de la Arquitectura, 1, pp. 113-130. https://doi.org/10.3989/arq.arqt.2002.10 is used to establish correlations between the different construction elements, the inclusions and interventions that constitute and are present in the buildings, and the pathological lesions that affect them (Brogiolo and Cagnana 2012Brogiolo, G. P., and Cagnana, A. 2012: Archeologia dell’architettura. Metodi e interpretazioni. All’Insegna del Giglio, Firenze.). Three processes are applied:

1. In situ stratigraphic reading to record: a) the construction elements and processes, which are typified by means of mural stratigraphic units (MSU), and b) the constructive pathologies, characterized using negative mural stratigraphic units or interfacial stratigraphic units (NMSU) (Brogiolo 2010Brogiolo, G. P. 2010: “Procedure di documentazione e processi interpreta-tivi dell’edilizia storica alla luce delle ‘Linee Guida per la valutazione e riduzione del rischio sismico del Patrimonio Culturale’.” Archeologia dell’architettura, XIII, pp. 9-13. http://digital.casalini.it/10.1400/182670 ). They collect those functional and geometric deformations caused by fissures, cracks, ruins, or demolitions, plus all the lesions originated by the action of physical, chemical/biological, and anthropic agents (Brogiolo and Cagnana 2012Brogiolo, G. P., and Cagnana, A. 2012: Archeologia dell’architettura. Metodi e interpretazioni. All’Insegna del Giglio, Firenze.; cited in Martín Talaverano et al. 2018Martín Talaverano, R., Cámara Muñoz, L., and Murillo Fragero, J. I. 2018: “Análisis integrado de construcciones históricas: secuencia estratigráfica y diagnóstico patológico. Aplicación en la iglesia de Santa Clara (Córdoba),” Arqueología de la Arquitectura, 15, pp. 1-29. https://doi.org/10.3989/arq.arqt.2018.001 ) in the materials that constitute each constructive element. It is worth mentioning that they act as essential elements to describe the processes of equilibrium, instability, and degradation in the evolutionary sequence of the building (Brogiolo 2010Brogiolo, G. P. 2010: “Procedure di documentazione e processi interpreta-tivi dell’edilizia storica alla luce delle ‘Linee Guida per la valutazione e riduzione del rischio sismico del Patrimonio Culturale’.” Archeologia dell’architettura, XIII, pp. 9-13. http://digital.casalini.it/10.1400/182670 ).

2. Information systematization through graphic (plans and elevations) and photographic (orthophotos) documentation of the elevations of the case studies. This is because the research focuses only on readings at the transversal-exterior or façade level since it was impossible to access the buildings and complete the survey. This documentation also allows confronting, purifying, and collecting the MSUs and NMSUs, which, due to their numerous identification in the in situ reading, are synthesized through activities (A), and these in groups of activities (GA) (Caballero Zoreda 1996Caballero Zoreda, L. 1996: “El análisis estratigráfico de construcciones históricas,” en C. Escribano Velasco, and L. Caballero Zoreda (coords.), Arqueología de la arquitectura: el método arqueológico aplicado al proceso de estudio y de intervención en edificios históricos: actas, pp. 55-74, Junta de Castilla y León, Consejería de Educación y Cultura, España, [online] https://dialnet.unirioja.es/servlet/libro?codigo=4506 [accessed 10/1/2023]. cited in Blanco-Rotea 1999: 35-39Blanco-Rotea, R. 1999: Metodología para el análisis estratigráfico del patrimonio construído y su aplicación en San Fiz de Solovio (Santiago de Compostela, A Coruña). Grupo de Investigación en Arqueología del Paisaje, Departamento de Historia I, Universidad de Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela. http://hdl.handle.net/10261/29650 ).

   The previous processes are collected in archaeological files with the technical-constructive descriptions of each MSU that conforms to the building. The NMSU and their relation of origin and incidence with the MSU.

3. Data interpretation from the MSU, NMSU, A, and GA, which are subjected to the application of the anteroposterior relationships and stratigraphic principles (Harris 1991Harris, E. 1991: Principios de estratigrafía arqueológica, I. Garcia (trad.). Editorial Crítica, Barcelona.; Caballero Zoreda 1995Caballero Zoreda, L. 1995: “Método para el análisis estratigráfico de construcciones históricas o «lectura de paramentos»,” Informes de la Construcción, 46, pp. 37-46. https://doi.org/10.3989/ic.1995.v46.i435.1096 ) to construct the stratigraphic diagram under the Harris Matrix method (Harris 1991Harris, E. 1991: Principios de estratigrafía arqueológica, I. Garcia (trad.). Editorial Crítica, Barcelona.) and thus define the relative type historical-constructive sequence and the degradation sequence (Brogiolo and Cagnana 2012Brogiolo, G. P., and Cagnana, A. 2012: Archeologia dell’architettura. Metodi e interpretazioni. All’Insegna del Giglio, Firenze.).

In the first case, the architectural elements that conform to the buildings are ascribed to specific historical phases in a diachronic or synchronic manner as appropriate. This is possible thanks to the historical and photo-historical documentation from the National Institute of Cultural Heritage of Ecuador (INPC, in Spanish) (INPC 1988Instituto Nacional de Patrimonio Cultural - INPC. 1988: Inventario de edificaciones, parroquias rurales. Instituto Nacional de Patrimonio Cultural, Subdirección del Austro, Cuenca. , 2009Instituto Nacional de Patrimonio Cultural - INPC. 2009: Expediente para la declaración de Quingeo como patrimonio del Ecuador. Instituto Nacional de Patrimonio Cultural, Cuenca. , 2014Instituto Nacional de Patrimonio Cultural - INPC. 2014: Fichas de inventario. Bienes Culturales patrimoniales inmuebles. Instituto Nacional de Patrimonio Cultural, Subdirección del Austro, Cuenca.). For its part, the second considers the practices and experimentations of pathological analysis according to the experiences of various authors (Brogiolo and Cagnana 2012Brogiolo, G. P., and Cagnana, A. 2012: Archeologia dell’architettura. Metodi e interpretazioni. All’Insegna del Giglio, Firenze.; Brogiolo and Faccio 2010Brogiolo, G. P., and Faccio, P. 2010: “Stratigrafia e prevenzione,” in G. P. Brogiolo (ed.), Archeologia dell’ Architettura, XV, 2010 - Temi e prospettive di ricerca, 15, pp. 55-63. Edizioni All, Insegna del Giglio s.a.s, Borgo San Lorenzo (FI), [online] https://www.insegnadelgiglio.it/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/archeologia-dellarchitettura-XV-anteprima.pdf [accessed 25/2/2023].; Brogiolo 2014Brogiolo, G. P. 2014: “I differenti linguaggi della stratigrafia.” Archeologia dell’architettura, XIX, pp. 66-69. http://digital.casalini.it/10.1400/237307 ; Causarano 2017Causarano, M. A. 2017: “Quantificare le architetture: i materiali da costruzione nei grandi cantieri medievali di Siena,” Archeologia dell’architettura, XXII, pp. 113-121. http://digital.casalini.it/10.1400/263411 ; Martín Talaverano et al. 2018Martín Talaverano, R., Cámara Muñoz, L., and Murillo Fragero, J. I. 2018: “Análisis integrado de construcciones históricas: secuencia estratigráfica y diagnóstico patológico. Aplicación en la iglesia de Santa Clara (Córdoba),” Arqueología de la Arquitectura, 15, pp. 1-29. https://doi.org/10.3989/arq.arqt.2018.001 ; Aguirre Ullauri et al. 2020Aguirre Ullauri, M. C., Aguirre, A. A. C., and Cedeño, G. M. Z. 2020: “Estratigrafía constructiva y lesiones patológicas. Diacronía y coexistencia de materiales en la arquitectura del centro histórico de Cuenca (Ecuador),” Arqueología de La Arquitectura, 17, e093. https://doi.org/10.3989/arq.arqt.2020.002 ). In this way, pathological lesions such as NMSU are related in the stratigraphic diagram in terms of representing MSU or temporal phases (Martín Talaverano et al. 2018Martín Talaverano, R., Cámara Muñoz, L., and Murillo Fragero, J. I. 2018: “Análisis integrado de construcciones históricas: secuencia estratigráfica y diagnóstico patológico. Aplicación en la iglesia de Santa Clara (Córdoba),” Arqueología de la Arquitectura, 15, pp. 1-29. https://doi.org/10.3989/arq.arqt.2018.001 ). The following considerations apply to interpret them rigorously and relate them to the historical-constructive sequence.

Pathological lesions are integrated as stratigraphic elements diachronically in the historical-constructive sequence, under the logic that these can be caused at a specific time and remain active throughout the historical-evolutionary process of the buildings (Martín Talaverano et al. 2018Martín Talaverano, R., Cámara Muñoz, L., and Murillo Fragero, J. I. 2018: “Análisis integrado de construcciones históricas: secuencia estratigráfica y diagnóstico patológico. Aplicación en la iglesia de Santa Clara (Córdoba),” Arqueología de la Arquitectura, 15, pp. 1-29. https://doi.org/10.3989/arq.arqt.2018.001 ). To establish such connotation in the stratigraphic matrix of the cases, the concepts of; 1) active movement or pathological processes that have been active in the first temporary phases or post-remaining phases and have not been stabilized by any subsequent constructive activity; and 2) arrested movement or those pathological processes active since the first temporary phases or post-remaining phases, temporarily canceled or stabilized by a subsequent constructive activity are considered. Those allow recognition of which parts of the architectural structures have been stabilized and which have not, and in which phase or temporal moment (Martín Talaverano et al. 2018Martín Talaverano, R., Cámara Muñoz, L., and Murillo Fragero, J. I. 2018: “Análisis integrado de construcciones históricas: secuencia estratigráfica y diagnóstico patológico. Aplicación en la iglesia de Santa Clara (Córdoba),” Arqueología de la Arquitectura, 15, pp. 1-29. https://doi.org/10.3989/arq.arqt.2018.001 ) it has occurred.

Similarly, the correlation of pathological lesions in the stratigraphic diagram is supported by the mentioned lesions are movements or pathological processes that occur relatively in the architectural structures, which define the possibility of relating some parts of the buildings with others (Martín Talaverano et al. 2018Martín Talaverano, R., Cámara Muñoz, L., and Murillo Fragero, J. I. 2018: “Análisis integrado de construcciones históricas: secuencia estratigráfica y diagnóstico patológico. Aplicación en la iglesia de Santa Clara (Córdoba),” Arqueología de la Arquitectura, 15, pp. 1-29. https://doi.org/10.3989/arq.arqt.2018.001 ). From the stratigraphic view, it is possible to understand the physical-destructive coexistence as evidence of the existing or potential deterioration of the materials (Aguirre Ullauri et al. 2020Aguirre Ullauri, M. C., Aguirre, A. A. C., and Cedeño, G. M. Z. 2020: “Estratigrafía constructiva y lesiones patológicas. Diacronía y coexistencia de materiales en la arquitectura del centro histórico de Cuenca (Ecuador),” Arqueología de La Arquitectura, 17, e093. https://doi.org/10.3989/arq.arqt.2020.002 ) that make up the MSU. This applies due to the existing incomplete documentation on the pathology of the buildings.

Although it has been possible to identify, observe and compare certain pathological processes through photo-historical evidence (INPC 1988Instituto Nacional de Patrimonio Cultural - INPC. 1988: Inventario de edificaciones, parroquias rurales. Instituto Nacional de Patrimonio Cultural, Subdirección del Austro, Cuenca. , 2009Instituto Nacional de Patrimonio Cultural - INPC. 2009: Expediente para la declaración de Quingeo como patrimonio del Ecuador. Instituto Nacional de Patrimonio Cultural, Cuenca. , 2014Instituto Nacional de Patrimonio Cultural - INPC. 2014: Fichas de inventario. Bienes Culturales patrimoniales inmuebles. Instituto Nacional de Patrimonio Cultural, Subdirección del Austro, Cuenca.), it has not been possible to establish their origin precisely. Thus, some elements are contrasted with others to determine objective hypotheses of their temporal origin. Consequently, the historical-constructive and degradation sequence of the case studies is obtained comprehensively. Figure 1 explains technically and graphically how the methodological process mentioned above was applied; the example of case study 2 has been replicated in the others.

Figure 1.  Application of mural stratigraphic analysis in the study cases: Case study 02

Finally, the results of the application of wall stratigraphy in the case studies have made it possible to describe the constructive and destructive singularities that require greater attention for the intervention and conservation of the historic vernacular architecture that comprises downtown Quingeo.

2.2. Proposal Phase

3.1. Identification and prioritization of alterations and damages

The vernacular patrimonial architecture makes it possible to define a vision of the events in conserving the downtown Quingeo complex. It allows for establishing risk indicators and identifying and prioritizing inadequate management, pathological lesions / destructive actions, and constructive alterations. From the latter, negative actions are identified and valued since they come from foreign contributions that cause the dissolution of the expressions of the historical, anthropological culture of the settlement, nor do they express the adaptation or continuity of the native anthropological culture of the settlement. As a result, the following situations predominate:

The typological-morphological-functional alterations include the demolition of constructive elements representative of the architectural identity of the downtown Quingeo settlement, the language of the local rural buildings, and even of the region. This situation is particularly evident in walls, balconies, balusters, and exterior steps, which leads to significant variations in the typology of the buildings. At the same time, spatial alterations are evident in accesses and/or vertical circulations, galleries, and exterior walls. Such elements have been affected by implementing constructive solutions without planning, although they imply new activities and conditions of habitability and, therefore, actual needs of the users at the cost of changes in the original conformation. Aggregates (spaces) are also recognized by closing galleries or portals and adding rooms.

The technological-constructive alterations (Fig. 2) are emphasized because of the use of incompatible materials (cement, brick, iron, among others) with their techniques, finishing, structures, and original construction systems, which are associated with repairs and/or aggregates. In addition, the alteration of the original construction techniques was identified, as well as their replacement by contemporary ones (concrete construction system). These actions lead to the deterioration of the original materials despite their articulation with solutions and/or constructive artisanal interventions. It has also caused a devaluation of its heritage condition and the loss of its constructive

In the case of physical damages, the following were identified: 1) degradation caused by sunlight and hygroscopy of the materials, like fissures, cracks, discoloration, deformation, and dimensional changes. They all affect structural elements (mezzanine, columns, and roof framing) and carpentry (windows, doors, and balconies); 2) erosive damages caused by wind and differential washing on the surface of the earthen masonry; and 3) yellow stains, peeling and spalling resulting from moisture seepage, loss of cohesion due to humidity, and poor quality of the material used in the coatings (water-based paint, latex, and lime).

Meanwhile, in the chemical/biological damages, there was a predominance of microfauna (xylophagous and fungi) attack on structural elements (mezzanine, columns, and roof framing) and wood carpentry (windows, doors, and balconies). This is due to the constant pathological symbiotic, that is, the simultaneous action of pathogenic agents (Lasheras Merino 2009: 833Lasheras Merino, F. 2009: “Patología de la construcción madera,” in A. Humero Martín, and A. M. García Gamallo (eds.), Tratado técnico jurídico de la edificación y el urbanismo. Patología de la construcción y técnicas de intervención, pp. 801-862. Thomson Reuters Aranzadi S.A., Navarra, [online] https://oa.upm.es/53437/ [accessed 07/06/2022].); by causing physical changes (fissures, cracks, roughness of the surface layer, and deformation of its fibers) in the wood, vulnerability is produced in the surface, which is favorable for an infectious process of xylophagous agents.

Assessment of identified alterations and damages

 ⌅

Out of the 7 constructive alterations and 8 destructive damages assessed (Fig. 4), five assessment ratios were predominant, which are detailed below:

• 1. Severity-probability rate of severe-medium type and prioritization magnitude of medium or medium priority refers to the fact that the damages and alterations require preventive and corrective preservation measures since it is possible that management may be limited or non-existent and may result in more significant degradation. It is, therefore, necessary to test and/or implement processes and actions in the short term to reduce the risk. The following, in particular, represent such scenarios:

  • Alteration 01. Inadequate or non-existent documentation.

  • Alteration 03. Typological-morphological-functional alterations: spatial alterations.

  • Alteration 04. Typological-morphological-functional alterations: additions or room additions.

  • Alteration 05. Technological-constructive alterations: use of non-compatible materials.

  • Damage 06. Physical pathological damages include yellowish stains, paint peeling and spalling, and lime coatings.

Figure 4.  Severity probability and the magnitude of prioritization resulting from the prioritized assessment of the identified alterations and damages.

• 2. Severity-probability ratio severe-high and magnitude of prioritization, very important or highest priority, the damages and alterations require preventive, corrective, and restoration preservation measures, with immediate action on the original architectural language. It is necessary to apply and generate control, follow-up, and/or emergent maintenance procedures to reduce the damages, as this could compromise or prevent the use of the building. The following are included on this list:

  • Alteration 02. Typological-morphological-functional alterations: demolition of potential construction elements.

  • Damage 04. Physical pathological damages: fissures, cracks, roughness, discoloration, deformation, and dimensional changes in the fibers of structural elements and wooden carpentry.

  • Damage 07. Chemical/biological pathological damages: attack of xylophagous microfauna and fungi on structural elements and wood carpentry.

• 3. Severity-probability ratio of severe-high type and magnitude of high prioritization or high priority, these problems require corrective conservation measures. Preventive processes also need to be implemented, planned, and improved to minimize risks, although the means to treat, maintain, and control issues such as the ones listed below are not available:

  • Alteration 06. Technological-constructive alterations: alteration of the original construction techniques.

  • Damage 01. Mechanical pathological damages: fissures and cracks equal to or greater than 0.3 mm in earthen walls.

  • Damage 03. Mechanical pathological damages: cracking at the base and crown of the earthen walls.

  • Damage 05. Physical pathological damages: erosive damages in the earthen walls.

• 4.Severity-probability ratio of severe-low type and moderate prioritization magnitude or low priority can stabilize the problems damages and alterations with heritage management and preservation measures. Nonetheless, the means of monitoring and controlling are restricted and need to be verified as to their effectiveness, to eliminate and/or reduce the impact. These cases include the following alterations and damages:

  • Alteration 07. Technological-constructive alterations added to contemporary construction techniques and systems.

  • Damage 02. Anthropic pathological damages: Vandalic actions such as graffiti and excoriation.

• 5. Severity-probability ratio of moderate-high type and medium prioritization magnitude or medium priority can stop the damages and alterations with precautionary preservation measures. Nevertheless, verifying, improving, or conducting processes and improvements in the short term is necessary to maintain, control, and reduce the risk. The following damage is identified in this situation:

  • Damage 08. Chemical/biological pathological damages: vegetable microorganisms attack on concrete masonry.

Prioritization of identified alterations and damages

 ⌅

Once the assessment of the alterations and damages is completed, they are prioritized (Chart 4). This led to the definition of the levels of urgency, which refer to the determination of specific actions, measures, and/or technical protocols.

Chart 4.  Prioritization of identified alterations and damages.

Chart 4 shows: 1) the alterations (01 to 06) and damages (08, 10 to 14) resulting from immediate action, and with predominance in the constructive-destructive process of the case studies, from typological, morphological, functional, and constructive transformation activities; and deterioration from pathological damages that have affected the significant constructive elements of the buildings. This is the deterioration that needs to be addressed immediately since there is a risk of decline and loss of the architectural-heritage conditions of the heritage buildings of Quingeo; and 2) the alteration (07) and damages (09, and 15) that did not qualify as a mandatory need for action. These do not require immediate attention to the buildings because they do not impede their use, nor do they directly affect their constructive characteristics (structural capacity), or their architectural-heritage conditions.

Analysis and classification of the alterations and damages

 ⌅

According to what was established in the assessment and prioritization of the conditions, they are analyzed and cataloged into different procedures and/or actions that allow a systematic and effective development for the design of technical protocols. By applying the Risk Analysis Matrix, the results shown in Chart 4 and Figure 5 are obtained, which present the quantitative and qualitative risk level of six alterations (01 to 06) and six prioritized damages (01, 03 to 07), as well as the cataloging of the type of procedure to be designed for each condition. Thus, it is obtained:

• Alteration 01, is associated with management protocols related to the acceptable risk level (Fig. 5), which suggests an analysis and improvement of procedures ensuring heritage preservation and protection (Tab. 3).

• Alterations 02 to 06, deal with monitoring and controlling procedures pertaining to the moderate risk level (Fig. 5). These define the need for systematic attention and follow-up to stop, eliminate, or minimize situations and/or activities that cause deterioration or losses in the buildings (Tab. 3).

• Damages 01, 03 to 07, are classified as periodic maintenance protocols that belong to the high-risk level (Fig. 5). These indicate planned and technical actions to preserve heritage properties’ physical stability and functionality (Tab. 3).

Figure 5.  Results of the quantitative and qualitative risk analysis of the prioritized alterations and damages.

PROBABILITY (P)	3	High	15 points Alteration 04 Moderate risk level Monitoring and control procedures Study cases 01 and 03	30 points Damages 05 and 06 High risk level Periodic maintenance protocols Study cases 01 and 03	60 points Damages 01, 04 and 07 High risk level Periodic maintenance protocols Study cases 01, 02 and 03
	2	Medium	10 points Not rated any damage Acceptable risk level Management protocols	20 points Alterations 05 and 06 Moderate risk level Monitoring and control procedures Study cases 01, 02 and 03	40 points Damage 03 High risk level Periodic maintenance protocols Study case 01
	1	Low	5 points Not rated any damage Acceptable risk level Management protocols	10 points Alteration 01 Acceptable risk level Management protocols Study cases 01, 02 and 03	20 points Alterations 02 and 03 Moderate risk level Monitoring and control procedures Study cases 01, 02 and 03
			Low	Medium	High
			5	10	20
				IMPACT (I)

Table 3.  Risk analysis matrix and resulting categorization of the prioritized alterations and damages.

Design of heritage preservation protocols

 ⌅

As a result of Chart 5 categorized alterations and damages, the protocol framework is oriented to provide technical guidelines to direct effective intervention actions following the architectural and heritage reality of downtown Quingeo and, therefore, support its conservation. Table 3 shows the general structure, establishing the three types of protocols and their components. Thus, seven types of protocols are conformed.

Chart 5.  Proposed protocol framework for preserving and managing downtown Quingeo’s heritage buildings.

Based on the previous context, several measures have been defined. Firstly, management protocol 01 (Tabs. 4-5), aims to improve the technical processes in the documentation of downtown Quingeo’s buildings and record the pathological, constructive, and intervention processes. This way, an effective approach and understanding are sought.

MANAGEMENT PROTOCOLS, AND MONITORING AND CONTROLLING PROCEDURES [Technical action]
PROTOCOL													OBJECTIVE	PROTOCOL DESCRIPTION
Type	Alteration						Damage							Frecuency							Actions
	01	02	03	04	05	06	01	03	04	05	06	07		6 months to 1 year	1 to 3 years	1 to 4 years	4 to 5 years	If necessary	Preventive intervention	Corrective intervention
MANAGEMENT PROTOCOL 01													To obtain technical documentation to improve preservation processes and vernacular buildings.								Inventory updating. Architectural-graphic documentation. Photographic and/or orthophotography documentation of constructive elements and existing spaces; remarkable findings (pathological or constructive) and constructive technologies.
MONITORING AND CONTROLLING PROCEDURE 01													Blocking the demolition of constructive elements, spatial alterations, and addition of rooms, to avoid the loss of the architectural, typological morphological, and functional language that frames the patrimonial heritage condition.								Monitoring
																					In situ inspections and supervisions of the original architectural language of the buildings. To consider with greater importance: a) steps, b) balconies, c) walls, d) galleries, and c) gates.
																					Controlling
																					The creation of an inventory for protecting the patrimony. For this purpose: To prepare a technical report containing: registration/verification, description, characterization, and valuation of heritage. To generate graphic-photographic documentation. To establish the level of importance, and in turn,define whether or not it is possible to intervene or transform the original architectural language
																					Inspection and control visits in intervention processes. That is to say, to verify according to the inventory of patrimonial protection that: The intervention actions of the constructive elements that can be modified, demolished, or transformed. The intervention actions are carried out only in the spaces or rooms allowed to be demolished or modified.
																					Free spaces that alter the typological-formal interpretation. Pay attention to: a) gates and galleries, and b) walls.
MONITORING AND CONTROLLING PROCEDURE 02													Avoid the use of incompatible materials and the alteration of original construction techniques, to reduce deterioration and maintain historical, technological, constructive, and socio-cultural values.								Monitoring
																					In situ inspections and supervisions of the original technological-constructive language of the buildings. Types of materials used, based on compatibility with existing materials. Types of construction techniques compatible or similar to the existing ones.
																					Controlling
																					To remove the incompatible material detected in the building. It is taken into account: a) to remove plaster or cement coatings on the walls, and, b) to make new plaster with compatible or similar materials to those existing. Repair of the affected material, where it should be considered: a) the use of compatible or existing materials in the building and, b) the application of compatible or existing construction techniques.
																					Inspection and control visits in intervention processes. It is verified that: a) the construction materials to be used are compatible with the original materials and, b) that the intervention actions respect and use compatible or similar construction techniques.

Table 4.  Detail of the technical actions of the management protocols, and monitoring and controlling procedures.

MANAGEMENT PROTOCOLS, AND MONITORING AND CONTROLLING PROCEDURES [Intervention zones]
PROTOCOL													PROTOCOL DESCRIPTION
Type	Alteration						Damage						Case (C00)	Intervention zones	Intervention mappings
	01	02	03	04	05	06	01	03	04	05	06	07
MANAGEMENT PROTOCOL 01													Building as a whole Applies to Cases 01 (C01), 02 (C02) and 03 (C03)		Not applicable	Not applicable	Not applicable
MONITORING AND CONTROLLING PROCEDURE 01													C01	Gateways
													C02
													C03
													C01	Galleries
													C02
													C03
													C01	Steps
													C02
													C03
													C01	Balconies
													C02
													C03
													C01	Walls
													C02
													C03
													C01	Room aggregates
													C02
													C03
MONITORING AND CONTROLLING PROCEDURE 02													C01	Construction techniques
													C02
													C03
													C01	Use of incompatible materials
													C02	Walls
													C03	Plastering
														Coatings
													C01	Construction systems
													C02
													C03

Table 5.  Detail of the areas and intervention mappings of the management protocols, and monitoring and controlling procedures.

Secondly, monitoring and controlling procedures 01 and 02 were defined (Tabs. 4-5). These procedures aim to supervise the alterations of constructive intervention and transformation identified in the buildings through the control and protection of the original architectural, typological, spatial, and technological-constructive language.

Thirdly, periodical maintenance protocols 01 to 03 are determined (Tabs. 6-7). These establish preservation measures focused on preventive and corrective interventions for the physical recovery of the original parts of the building, i.e., wood construction elements (columns, mezzanines, roof trusses, balconies, and carpentry) and concrete construction elements (load-bearing walls, and plaster). Moreover, the periodical maintenance protocol 04 (Tabs. 6-7) is determined, which resorts to the maintenance of lime plaster and paint to control, repair and maintain the damages; and to avoid future deterioration and the reproduction of other destructive processes. These constructive elements (wood and earth) showed the most aggressive damages, accentuating a possible loss of structural capacity. Thus, by applying the periodic maintenance protocols, the aim is to consolidate and repair the elements to avoid the partial or total collapse of the buildings.

PERIODIC MAINTENANCE PROTOCOLS [Technical action]
PROTOCOL													OBJECTIVE	PROTOCOL DESCRIPTION
Type	Alteration						Damage							Frecuency							Actions
	01	02	03	04	05	06	01	03	04	05	06	07		6 months to 1 year	1 to 3 years	1 to 4 years	4 to 5 years	If necessary	Preventive	Corrective intervention
PERIODIC MAINTENANCE PROTOCOL 01													To enhance the constructive capacity of existing earthen walls in buildings by reinforcing and repairing their structural potential.								Control and monitoring of the structural condition of earthen walls.
																					Monitoring and immediate repair action in the event of mechanical damage or identified structural failure.
																					Structural strengthening; and repair of: a) cracks and fissures and, b) detachments in the earthen walls.
PERIODIC MAINTENANCE PROTOCOL 02													To reduce deterioration and improve the constructive capacity and physical integrity of the structural elements and wood carpentry of buildings.								Cleanliness of the wooden surface. Control and monitoring of the state of the treatments. Visual control of; a) surface degradation by sunlight incidence, b) surface degradation by hygroscopy, and c) degradation by humidity.
																					Monitoring and immediate repair of any damage caused by surface degradation resulting from sun-humidity and hygroscopy incidence.
																					Coat the surface of the wood with varnish or ecological protective paint (composed of raw material of vegetable-mineral origin) with exterior resistance.
																					Repair and filling of cracks, holes, and fisures. Application of curative and protective chemical treatment (insecticide product and liquid of vegetable-mineral origin) to eliminate microfauna. Application of chemical lightening treatment (110 volume hydrogen peroxide or 12% bleach) to eliminate discoloration and recover as much as possible its natural tone.
PERIODIC MAINTENANCE PROTOCOL 03													To avoid and reduce the surface degradation of earthen walls to protect their constructive and physical capacity, and thus their constituent material.								Visual control of degradation caused by differential washing. Control and revision of the roof and water filtrations. Control and revision of coatings on earthen walls.
																					Supervise and ensure immediate action of any damage to the roof. Supervise and ensure the immediate action of any damage to plastering or coatings.
																					Lime plaster on the earthen walls to protect their exposure. Repairing the roof to prevent leaks. If the earthen walls without lime or other material coatings have been eroded by wind and rain, repair them: 1) homogenize the deterioration, chopping the plaster or coating; 2) repair losses and damage of adobe and mortar joints; and 3) make plaster of empañete (mud, horse excrement, and straw). If the earthen walls with plaster and lime have been eroded by wind and rainwater, repair them: 1) homogenize the deterioration, removing the lime coating and cleaning the affected area; 2) repair losses and damage to the plaster coating; 3) repair losses and damage to the lime plaster; 4) repair the damaged areas. 2) repair losses and damage to the plaster coating, and 3) carry out lime plastering.
PERIODIC MAINTENANCE PROTOCOL 04													To prevent deterioration and degradation of wall coverings through solutions that respond to gradual physical risks.								Visual control of coatings and degradation by atmospheric agents. Control and revision of the roof to avoid leaks.
																					To supervise and procure immediate action to repair any damage repair of any damage caused by atmospheric. To supervise and ensure the immediate repair of any damage on roof.
																					To remove dirt and dust to ensure cohesion. Quality control, type of paints, compatibility with pre-existing materials, and coating materials (lime or others).
																					Roof repair to prevent the impact of rainwater on the coatings. Repair of peeling and spalling.

Table 6.  Detail of the technical actions of the periodic maintenance protocols.

PERIODIC MAINTENANCE PROTOCOLS [Intervention zones]
PROTOCOL													PROTOCOL DESCRIPTION
Type	Alteration						Damage						Case (C00)	Intervention zones	Intervention mappings
	01	02	03	04	05	06	01	03	04	05	06	07
PERIODIC MAINTENANCE PROTOCOL 01													C01	Earthen walls	Not applicable	Not applicable
													C02	Detachments
													C03	Cracks and fissures
													C01	Mezzanine
													C02	longitudinal girders
													C03	transversal girders
													C01	Gateway
													C02	Columns
													C03
													C01	Roof
													C02	Girders
													C03	Overhags and roof tiles
													C01	Carpentry
													C02	Doors and windows
													C03	Balconies
													C01	Plasterings
													C02	Detachments
													C03
													C01	Coatings
													C02	Spallings
													C03	Stains
PERIODIC MAINTENANCE PROTOCOL 02													C01	Earthen walls
													C02	Detachments
													C03	Cracks and fissures
													C01	Mezzanine
													C02	longitudinal girders
													C03	transversal girders
													C01	Gateway
													C02	Columns
													C03
													C01	Roof
													C02	Girders
													C03	Overhags and roof tiles
													C01	Carpentry
													C02	Doors and windows
													C03	Balconies
													C01	Plasterings
													C02	Detachments
													C03
													C01	Coatings
													C02	Spallings
													C03	Stains
PERIODIC MAINTENANCE PROTOCOL 03													C01	Earthen walls		Not applicable
													C02	Detachments
													C03	Cracks and fissures
													C01	Mezzanine
													C02	longitudinal girders
													C03	transversal girders
													C01	Gateway
													C02	Columns
													C03
													C01	Roof
													C02	Girders
													C03	Overhags and roof tiles
													C01	Carpentry
													C02	Doors and windows
													C03	Balconies
													C01	Plasterings
													C02	Detachments
													C03
													C01	Coatings
													C02	Spallings
													C03	Stains
PERIODIC MAINTENANCE PROTOCOL 04													C01	Earthen walls
													C02	Detachments
													C03	Cracks and fissures
													C01	Mezzanine
													C02	longitudinal girders
													C03	transversal girders
													C01	Gateway
													C02	Columns
													C03
													C01	Roof
													C02	Girders
													C03	Overhags and roof tiles
													C01	Carpentry
													C02	Doors and windows
													C03	Balconies
													C01	Plasterings
													C02	Detachments
													C03
													C01	Coatings
													C02	Spallings
													C03	Stains

Table 7.  Detail of the areas and intervention mappings of the periodic maintenance protocols.

Lastly, implementing management protocol 01 is necessary, which aims to technically enhance the architectural documentation of downtown Quingeo’s buildings and record all pathological, constructive, and interventionist processes for an effective approach and understanding of the preservation and protection. Likewise, the periodical maintenance protocols 01 to 04; the follow-up and control procedures 01 and 02 require the application of two key components and actors for their execution, these are:

1. Agents: establishes the administrative and human resources for executing the protocol framework, i.e., the team of trained technical professionals and the public institutions in charge of heritage preservation (Tab. 8).

2. Product: defines the expected verifiable when the proposed protocols are applied. There are two requirements for each type:

TASKS	RESOURCES
	Public administration of the heritage	Technical leader or coordinator	Preservation technician	Restoration technician	Architec	Construction workers
Fulfill the purpose of the protocol.	R/I	R/A	R	R
Execute and carry out the technical actions proposed in the management protocols.	I	A	R/C		R/C
Execute and perform the technical actions proposed in the periodical maintenance protocols.	I	A	R/C	R/C	R/C	R
Execute and carry out the technical actions proposed in the monitoring and control procedures.	I	A	R/C	R/C	R/C
Apply the protocol in the eintervention areass and mappings specified in the graphic documentation.	I	A	R/C	R/C	R/C
Designate human resources (own or external to the administration) with the appropriate professional profile or training for the application of the protocol.	R	A
Allocation of equipment and instruments necessary to execute and apply the protocols.	R	A
CATEGORIES OF RESPONSIBILITY
R: RESPONSIBLE	A: AUTHORITY		C: CONSULTANTS		I:INFORMANTS
PERCENTAGE IMPLICATION PER RESOURCE AND CATEGORY OF RESPONSIBILITY

Table 8.  Resulting RACI Responsibilities Matrix for the execution of the downtown Quingeo protocol framework.

Specific product per protocol type is obtained in line with the objective and technical actions contained in the individual protocols. This is:

• Management protocols: To ensure the effective application and management of architectural heritage structures, it is necessary to provide: 1) inventory sheets and 2) architectural heritage documentation for the parties involved in the buildings.

• Periodical maintenance protocols arise from the periodic timely inspections, interventions, and compliance with the proposed technical actions taken on the buildings. Therefore, data collection sheets must be prepared, stipulating: 1) the inspection information and 2) the description of the interventions and treatments applied.

• Monitoring and controlling procedures: through mechanisms for monitoring and evaluating the protocol’s effectiveness. Thus, detailed follow-up and control records of the verifications conducted and any findings made during the inspections will be kept.

Global product for all protocols, i.e., the standard results that apply as a global need, regardless of the objective or action of each protocol. The products produced shall be:

• Support-graphic and photographic documentation through illustrative mappings in plans, elevations, and cuts, photographs, orthophotos, among others. This documentation will address the tasks that have been performed and fulfilled with the application of the protocol, as well as the registration of new particularities found in the buildings requiring intervention.

• Reports on the implemented protocol detailing: 1) executed tasks or activities; 2) possible incidents that may arise over time and that need to be addressed; 3) verification of the effectiveness-reduction of the technical actions of the protocol when applied to the damages; and 4) the conclusions of the technical work conducted.

3.2. Result of the proposed protocol framework

Based on those mentioned above and regarding the global result of the proposed protocol framework, the aim is to generate a base of technical processes associated with the minimum intervention. That is, to consider and reduce treatments and actions that avoid aggressive and transforming intervention in the architectural entities since real estate tends to become detached and lose its identity, concept, and original constitution with more processes.

This conclusion is based on the restoration theories of Camilo Boito and Gustavo Giovannoni, which have been taken from the adaptation and redefinition to modern times by various authors, such as Aparicio Marín (2017)Aparicio Marín, A. 2017: Mínima intervención: Una comparativa entre recientes proyectos de restauración. Tesis de pregrado, Universidad Politécnica de Valencia, Valencia. http://hdl.handle.net/10251/111582 , Macarrón Miguel et al. (2019)Macarrón Miguel, A., Calvo Manuel, A., and Gil Macarrón, R. 2019: Criterios y normativas en la conservación y restauración del patrimonio cultural y natural. Editorial Síntesis S.A., Madrid, [online] https://www.sintesis.com/data/indices/9788491713272.pdf [accessed 07/06/2022]., and Pérez Gil (2020)Pérez Gil, J. 2020: “The Question of Material Conservation in Vernacular Architecture: Theory, Authenticity and Contradictions,” Conservar Património, 35, pp. 116-130. https://doi.org/10.14568/cp2019021 . Along with the regulatory framework and recommendations of international documents stipulated by ICOMOS and UNESCO, such as the Venice Charter (1964ICOMOS. 1964: Carta internacional sobre la conservación y la restauración de monumentos y sitios (Carta de Venecia), [online] https://www.icomos.org/charters/venice_sp.pdf [accessed 14/12/2021].), Washington Charter (1987ICOMOS. 1987: Carta Internacional para la Conservación de Poblaciones y Áreas Urbanas Históricas (Carta de Washington), [online] https://www.icomos.org/charters/towns_sp.pdf [accessed 12/12/2021].), Nara Charter (1994ICOMOS. 1994: Documento de Nara sobre la autenticidad (Carta de Nara), [online] https://www.iccrom.org/sites/default/files/publications/2020-05/convern8_06_docudenara_esp.pdf [accessed 15/12/2021].), Charter on the Built Vernacular Heritage (1999ICOMOS. 1999: Charter on the built vernacular heritage, [online] https://www.icomos.org/images/DOCUMENTS/Charters/vernacular_e.pdf [accessed 25/2/2023]. ), Krakow Charter (2000), and Charter Principles for the Analysis, Conservation, and Restoration of Architectural Heritage Structures (2003ICOMOS. 2003: Principios para el Análisis, Conservación y Restauración de las estructuras del Patrimonio Arquitectónico, [online] https://www.icomos.org/charters/structures_sp.pdf [accessed 13/12/2021].).

The minimum intervention applied to the architectural reality of downtown Quingeo is considered an action that seeks to preserve and protect both the territory’s physical structure and cultural and architectural values. Thus, its action is directed to a specific intervention or building areas that require technical interventions (Aparicio Marin 2017: 107-110Aparicio Marín, A. 2017: Mínima intervención: Una comparativa entre recientes proyectos de restauración. Tesis de pregrado, Universidad Politécnica de Valencia, Valencia. http://hdl.handle.net/10251/111582 ). Similarly, it considers the maximum respect for its original characterizations, from the constructive, formal, spatial, and functional aspects which define its original design. To this end, it suggests using treatments, techniques, materials, and construction systems compatible with the property and its cultural and historical values, which do not lead to mimetic additions that alter its architectural and historical authenticity (Olona et al. 2020: 100-113Olona, J., Bosch, M., Villanueva, X., and Villanueva, I. 2020: “Criterios de intervención en la restauración de la planta noble de la Casa Batlló de Antoni Gaudí,” Loggia, Arquitectura y Restauración, 33, pp. 98-117. https://doi.org/10.4995/loggia.2020.14039 ). According to this, the 7 proposed protocols act under the following intervention criteria.

Reversibility and minimal intervention, according to the Venice Charter (1994ICOMOS. 1994: Documento de Nara sobre la autenticidad (Carta de Nara), [online] https://www.iccrom.org/sites/default/files/publications/2020-05/convern8_06_docudenara_esp.pdf [accessed 15/12/2021].), Charter on the Built Vernacular Heritage (1999ICOMOS. 1999: Charter on the built vernacular heritage, [online] https://www.icomos.org/images/DOCUMENTS/Charters/vernacular_e.pdf [accessed 25/2/2023]. ), and Charter Principles for the analysis, preservation, and restoration of heritage architectural structures (2003ICOMOS. 2003: Principios para el Análisis, Conservación y Restauración de las estructuras del Patrimonio Arquitectónico, [online] https://www.icomos.org/charters/structures_sp.pdf [accessed 13/12/2021].), seeks to emphasize the importance of maintaining the pre-existing architectural characteristics of the buildings both from a socio-cultural perspective to their physical potential and the need for preservation (ICOMOS 1964ICOMOS. 1964: Carta internacional sobre la conservación y la restauración de monumentos y sitios (Carta de Venecia), [online] https://www.icomos.org/charters/venice_sp.pdf [accessed 14/12/2021]., 2003ICOMOS. 2003: Principios para el Análisis, Conservación y Restauración de las estructuras del Patrimonio Arquitectónico, [online] https://www.icomos.org/charters/structures_sp.pdf [accessed 13/12/2021].). Therefore, actions are taken to avoid inadequate interventions, which have been predominant in the historical-constructive process of the vernacular buildings of Quingeo. On the other hand, and at the same time, they establish reversible actions.

Accordingly, it is decided to consolidate and repair rather than replace the structures, architectural elements, and/or spaces that show evidence of bio-deterioration and physical deterioration to avoid undermining their authenticity and integrity (Ferrada Aguilar 2010Ferrada Aguilar, M. 2010: “Proyectar sobre proyectos. Algunos aspectos a considerar en el proyecto de intervención sobre preexistencias arquitectónicas y urbanas,” in Actas del Taller de rehabilitación arquitectónica, pp. 1-16. Universidad Nacional Andrés Bello, Viña del Mar.). These references are in line with the stipulations from Camilo Boito and the Charter of Nara (1994ICOMOS. 1994: Documento de Nara sobre la autenticidad (Carta de Nara), [online] https://www.iccrom.org/sites/default/files/publications/2020-05/convern8_06_docudenara_esp.pdf [accessed 15/12/2021].) to Aparicio Marín (2017)Aparicio Marín, A. 2017: Mínima intervención: Una comparativa entre recientes proyectos de restauración. Tesis de pregrado, Universidad Politécnica de Valencia, Valencia. http://hdl.handle.net/10251/111582 and Macarrón Miguel et al. (2019)Macarrón Miguel, A., Calvo Manuel, A., and Gil Macarrón, R. 2019: Criterios y normativas en la conservación y restauración del patrimonio cultural y natural. Editorial Síntesis S.A., Madrid, [online] https://www.sintesis.com/data/indices/9788491713272.pdf [accessed 07/06/2022]., in which preservation should be minimal, consolidation, and/or repair actions should always be preferred to restoration. The objective is to protect the physical conception and thus the documentary character of the property, as well as its unity, authenticity, integrity, and cultural identity, as stated in the Charter on the Built Vernacular Heritage (1999ICOMOS. 1999: Charter on the built vernacular heritage, [online] https://www.icomos.org/images/DOCUMENTS/Charters/vernacular_e.pdf [accessed 25/2/2023]. ).

Authenticity and integrity, act under the criteria of the Charters of Venice (1964ICOMOS. 1964: Carta internacional sobre la conservación y la restauración de monumentos y sitios (Carta de Venecia), [online] https://www.icomos.org/charters/venice_sp.pdf [accessed 14/12/2021].), Nara (1994ICOMOS. 1994: Documento de Nara sobre la autenticidad (Carta de Nara), [online] https://www.iccrom.org/sites/default/files/publications/2020-05/convern8_06_docudenara_esp.pdf [accessed 15/12/2021].), the Built Vernacular Heritage (1999ICOMOS. 1999: Charter on the built vernacular heritage, [online] https://www.icomos.org/images/DOCUMENTS/Charters/vernacular_e.pdf [accessed 25/2/2023]. ), Krakow (2000), and the Principles for the analysis, preservation, and restoration of architectural heritage structures (2003ICOMOS. 2003: Principios para el Análisis, Conservación y Restauración de las estructuras del Patrimonio Arquitectónico, [online] https://www.icomos.org/charters/structures_sp.pdf [accessed 13/12/2021].), so that the heritage preservation protocols respect the originality and unity of the buildings as much as possible. This means preserving spaces, materials, and original constructive and architectural elements because they are clear evidence of the territory’s culture and the community’s identity (ICOMOS 1964ICOMOS. 1964: Carta internacional sobre la conservación y la restauración de monumentos y sitios (Carta de Venecia), [online] https://www.icomos.org/charters/venice_sp.pdf [accessed 14/12/2021]., 1994ICOMOS. 1994: Documento de Nara sobre la autenticidad (Carta de Nara), [online] https://www.iccrom.org/sites/default/files/publications/2020-05/convern8_06_docudenara_esp.pdf [accessed 15/12/2021]., 1999ICOMOS. 1999: Charter on the built vernacular heritage, [online] https://www.icomos.org/images/DOCUMENTS/Charters/vernacular_e.pdf [accessed 25/2/2023]. , 2003ICOMOS. 2003: Principios para el Análisis, Conservación y Restauración de las estructuras del Patrimonio Arquitectónico, [online] https://www.icomos.org/charters/structures_sp.pdf [accessed 13/12/2021].; Cristinelli 2004Cristinelli, G. 2004: “Fundamentos, fines y ámbitos de la intervención para la conservación en la Carta de Cracovia,” PH, 57, pp. 57-59. https://doi.org/10.33349/2004.50.1820 ).

Differentiation between the existing and the intervened, associated with those stipulated by Camilo Boito and Gustavo Giovannoni, which were updated by Macarrón Miguel et al. (2019)Macarrón Miguel, A., Calvo Manuel, A., and Gil Macarrón, R. 2019: Criterios y normativas en la conservación y restauración del patrimonio cultural y natural. Editorial Síntesis S.A., Madrid, [online] https://www.sintesis.com/data/indices/9788491713272.pdf [accessed 07/06/2022]., Pérez Gil (2020)Pérez Gil, J. 2020: “The Question of Material Conservation in Vernacular Architecture: Theory, Authenticity and Contradictions,” Conservar Património, 35, pp. 116-130. https://doi.org/10.14568/cp2019021 ; Krakow Charter (2000) and Charter Principles for the analysis, preservation, and restoration of heritage architectural structures (2003ICOMOS. 2003: Principios para el Análisis, Conservación y Restauración de las estructuras del Patrimonio Arquitectónico, [online] https://www.icomos.org/charters/structures_sp.pdf [accessed 13/12/2021].) (ICOMOS 2003ICOMOS. 2003: Principios para el Análisis, Conservación y Restauración de las estructuras del Patrimonio Arquitectónico, [online] https://www.icomos.org/charters/structures_sp.pdf [accessed 13/12/2021].; Cristinelli 2004Cristinelli, G. 2004: “Fundamentos, fines y ámbitos de la intervención para la conservación en la Carta de Cracovia,” PH, 57, pp. 57-59. https://doi.org/10.33349/2004.50.1820 ). The protocols were thus determined to block the elimination of the differentiating elements of the heritage architectural characteristics with historical value in the evolutionary process of the buildings. The aim is to preserve the original construction through its architectural language (typology, morphology, and aesthetic-formal dimension), constructive (materials, techniques, and construction systems), and functional (spaces, rooms, among others).

Hence, the protocol framework respects the original configuration as it focuses on; 1) not generating false history since it deals with interventionist processes of consolidation and/or repair, where concepts, techniques, materials, and construction systems are compatible or similar to the pre-existing are applied, to manage unity-integrity, but with traces of the interventionist action; and, 2) the actions were proposed as a necessary and obligatory response to specific segments with possible loss of structural capacity in the buildings, as they are strictly necessary (ICOMOS 1994ICOMOS. 1994: Documento de Nara sobre la autenticidad (Carta de Nara), [online] https://www.iccrom.org/sites/default/files/publications/2020-05/convern8_06_docudenara_esp.pdf [accessed 15/12/2021].; Aparicio Marín 2017Aparicio Marín, A. 2017: Mínima intervención: Una comparativa entre recientes proyectos de restauración. Tesis de pregrado, Universidad Politécnica de Valencia, Valencia. http://hdl.handle.net/10251/111582 ; Macarrón Miguel 2019Macarrón Miguel, A., Calvo Manuel, A., and Gil Macarrón, R. 2019: Criterios y normativas en la conservación y restauración del patrimonio cultural y natural. Editorial Síntesis S.A., Madrid, [online] https://www.sintesis.com/data/indices/9788491713272.pdf [accessed 07/06/2022].). The latter also responds to the lines of action (replacement of materials and parts, adaptation and changes, and period restoration) stipulated in the Charter on the Built Vernacular Heritage (1999ICOMOS. 1999: Charter on the built vernacular heritage, [online] https://www.icomos.org/images/DOCUMENTS/Charters/vernacular_e.pdf [accessed 25/2/2023]. ).

At this point, it should be emphasized that the conservation, management, and protection of the vernacular real estate of Quingeo (downtown and parish area) through the design of the protocol framework is based on the preservation of its original constitution which, indeed, allows the protection of the historical, socio-cultural and technological-constructive symbiosis of the buildings, but in turn, represents the population and its contributions to the definition of architecture. This proposal responds to an articulated base, which has defined limits, levels, and technical processes prioritizing the elements, conditions, and essential needs to improve the State of buildings preservation in Quingeo. In turn, and despite this projection, for success and potential development, the protocol framework requires two additional articulations; economic and social. Namely:

Economic articulation, is associated with economic and financial activities for public actors and citizens to achieve feasibility and, consequently, success in the preservation of buildings. To this end, the theory contemplated in the existing national and local regulatory framework must be implemented. The first one states the obligation of sustainable financing and investments, oriented to the determination of economic and technical resources for research, preservation, enhancement, and social use of the cultural heritage of the Ecuadorian State (Constitución de la República del Ecuador 2008: 115-116Constitución de la República del Ecuador. 2008: Constitución de la República del Ecuador: Reformas aprobadas en el Referéndum y Consulta Popular de 7 de mayo de 2011. Registro Oficial 449. Asamblea Nacional de la República del Ecuador, Quito: [online] https://www.asambleanacional.gob.ec/sites/default/files/documents/old/constitucion_de_bolsillo.pdf [accessed 08/12/2021].; COOTAD 2019: 1-12Código Orgánico de Organizacion Territorial - COOTAD. 2019: Código Orgánico de Organizacion Territorial, Autonomia y Descentralizacion. Registro Oficial Suplemento 303. Asamblea Nacional de la República del Ecuador, Quito: [online] https://www.gob.ec/regulaciones/cootad [accessed 14/12/2021].; LOC 2016: 4-10Ley Orgánica de Cultura - LOC. 2016: Ley Orgánica de la Cultural. Registro Oficial Suplemento 913. Asamblea Nacional de la República del Ecuador, Quito, [online] https://bit.ly/393pR1T [accessed 12/12/2021].). In other words, the technical proposal must contemplate the need for mixed investment resources (public and private) for the physical recovery of the architectural heritage from the financing and priority and accessible credits for the competent public administration in the territory; this is suggested for the second actor as well as for the citizens in general. This structure aims to facilitate management and preservation through 3 essential processes: 1) preparation of studies, 2) execution of works, and 3) institutional strengthening, both for the development of management plans and legal resources, as well as for the application of innovative and effective disciplines and tools in the documentation and technical action (INPC 2018Instituto Nacional de Patrimonio Cultural - INPC. 2018: Financiamientos a los Gads Municipales para proyectos de gestión de patrimonio cultural. Instituto Nacional de Patrimonio Cultural, Quito, [online] https://www.patrimoniocultural.gob.ec/financiamientos-a-los-gads-municipales-para-proyectos-de-gestion-de-patrimonio-cultural/ [accessed 16/12/2021].).

Social articulation, from the citizen involvement for its validation or reform, as well as for its practical implementation. It is considered to promote and apply participatory, collaborative, and contributive co-creation as a key methodological sample in the conservation of heritage real estate (Bocanegra Barbecho 2017: 326-331Bocanegra Barbecho, L., Toscano, M., and Lara Delgado, A. 2017: “Co-creación, participación y redes sociales para hacer historia. Ciencia con y para la sociedad,” Historia y Comunicación Social, 22, pp. 325-344. https://doi.org/10.5209/hics.57847 ) through a collaboration between the community of Quingeo and the society outside the territory, which allows the development of several work actions. In other words, society becomes a key party in heritage management and preservation. This broadens the understanding and knowledge of the cultural property in specific groups, institutional and/or political actors, for the development of research and activities according to its nature. Likewise, social co-creation makes it possible to recover the historical, symbolic, and identity link and appropriation between the community and the heritage real estate, reinforcing citizen empowerment and the dissemination and socialization of cultural heritage (Jirón Martínez 2017: 69-75Jirón Martínez, P. 2017: “De la participación a la co-creación. nuevas formas de pensar intervenciones para mejorar el habitar urbano/residencial,” Materia Arquitectura, 12, pp. 66-75. https://repositorio.uchile.cl/handle/2250/140995 ).

In light of the above, the symbiosis of technical (protocol framework), institutional (financing and investment activities), and social (citizen participation) processes define a viable strategic axis for the enhancement and physical conservation of the vernacular architecture of Quingeo and nearby territories.