Lookouts as a tool for the valorisation of urban landscape. The case study of madrid

Abstract

When reflecting on how to reconcile urban growth and landscape protection, bringing together objective reality and perceptive features is key to overcome the traditional concept of ‘monument preservation’ in favour of a more extensive and inclusive approach. In this paper, we focus on the importance of the historical landscape to the west and south-west of Madrid. Using relevant lookouts as witnesses of the evolution of the city’s urban morphology and its dialogue with the surrounding countryside, the purpose is to evaluate how these iconic views have developed, as well as to reflect on the importance of preserving certain ensembles, in particular those shaping the ‘Cornice’ of Madrid. For this, we propose a methodology involving comparison with historical cartography, generation of visual basins using GIS, 360º panoramas of the current state, as well as analytical drawings of certain views, as useful tools for a more holistic approach to urban landscape valorization.