'Jardín Indiano' Observatory

The 'Jardín Indiano Observatory' has undertaken the monumental task of documenting the history and legacy of this type of gardens in the Principality of Asturias. Through a multidisciplinary approach, we aim to shed light on a gardening tradition intertwined with the history of the 'Indianos,' those Asturians who amassed wealth in America and returned to their homeland.

The 'Observatory of the Indian Garden' not only seeks to document but also to comprehend and appreciate a heritage that speaks of the convergence of two worlds and the passion of those Asturians who, upon returning from distant lands, chose to embody their experiences and riches in these green sanctuaries.

EARLY SIGNIFICANT ADVANCES

Literature Review: A comprehensive study of all relevant literature has enabled us to compile a preliminary list identifying over 500 gardens solely within Asturias. These gardens, organized by both their age and municipality, showcase the rich diversity and proliferation of this phenomenon throughout the Principality.

Interactive Map: To visualize the vastness and distribution of these gardens, we have developed an interactive map. This tool, more than a mere visual aid, offers a tangible representation of the project's magnitude and the historical and cultural significance of these gardens in the Asturian landscape.
 

Specific Cataloging Sheets: We have designed tailored cataloging sheets that allow us to deeply analyze the essential characteristics of these gardens. These sheets address both architectural and botanical elements, providing an assessment of the current state of each garden. This analysis will be crucial in identifying areas that require conservation efforts.

See EXAMPLE CATALOGING SHEET (spanish only)

UPCOMING PROJECT PHASES

The next phase of the project directly involves the owners of these gardens in order to coordinate visits and complete the previously designed cataloging sheets. These data will enable us to answer fundamental questions about the creation and evolution of these spaces. We aim to uncover the motivations that drove the "Indianos" to establish these gardens, identify the plant species used, and distinguish between native and introduced species from America, as well as the process of their transfer and acclimatization. Who designed and built these gardens? Did the figure of the "Indiano" influence the evolution of Asturian gardens in the 19th century?

We acknowledge that the success of the 'Jardin Indiano Observatory ' heavily relies on the combination of efforts and resources. To address the scope and depth of this project, it is essential to weave a network of collaboration and support with various stakeholders involved in the preservation of Asturian heritage and history. Thus, we will initiate a process of dialogue and engagement with both public and private organizations, establishing alliances that provide us access to the necessary means to carry out our mission. This multidisciplinary and multi-institutional collaboration will be crucial in ensuring the preservation, study, and dissemination of these gardens, which stand as living testimonies to a pivotal chapter in the history of Asturias.

OBJECTIVES

Research on the main architectural, artistic, historical, and sociological aspects that make up the 'Indiano-type' of garden. Catalogue this type of gardens in Asturias in order to preserve and promote the value of these gardens as a cultural and heritage asset of the Principality of Asturias.

WORKSTREAMS

The main focus of the Observatory is to compile a list of 'Indiano Gardens' in Asturias, allowing us to catalogue and document as many of these spaces as possible in order to study their characteristics, composition, and elements that shape their design, thus preserving their cultural heritage.

Establishing relationships with entities that can provide relevant data and insights to enrich the research, creating a solid foundation of information. Authors, public and private institutions, historical and photographic archives, as well as any available bibliographic sources.

Communicating and disseminating the research project through the creation of informative content, appearances in specialized media, and collaborations with other interested institutions.

Seeking funding, whether public or private, to forge strategic alliances and assemble a specific research team to advance the investigation.

Collaborating in the preservation and promotion of heritage and working in conjunction with involved institutions and stakeholders, both public and private, to protect and enhance these gardens as part of the cultural and landscape heritage of the region.

Collaborate with us: dlab@dstudio.es 

OUR EXPERIENCE

Our approach has always been to respect the history and essence of each of these gardens. Our commitment to the preservation of the Asturias Landscape and Cultural Heritage has led us to carry out rigorous work when we have had to face their rehabilitation. Our work in all cases has started with an exhaustive investigation of the evolution, use, and heritage value of each of the gardens, including the consultation of primary and secondary sources, interviews with people related to them, and the review of numerous historical archives.

SPANISH PRESS

EL COMERCIO: Un observatorio para rescatar el jardín indiano
LA NUEVA ESPAÑA: Un plan de un ingeniero de origen llanisco para rescatar los jardines indianos
TPA (en castellano): Investigar para rehabilitar jardines de indianos
TPA (n'asturiau): Investigar pa rehabilitar los xardinos indianos

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

Ayuntamiento de Llanes, Asociación 'Documenta Llanes', Fundación 'Archivo de Indianos', José Antonio Anca Gómez, Javier Morán Sobrino, El Comercio, La Nueva España, Televisión del Principado de Asturias.