Organização espacial de um engenho Colonial: o caso do engenho Murutucu

Abstract

The historical site of Murutucu has been the target of archaeological research developed by the Emílio Goeldi Museum since 1986. The present work aims to understand how the spatial organization of the architectural structures is characterized, as well as the materials and construction techniques used in the buildings, in order to support the archaeological interpretation of the historical processes that occurred at the site. According to research methodologies of historical sites, in order to contextualize this information, a preliminary historical survey has been carried out in books, newspapers and old photographs. At the site, a photographic record was made to define the current conservation situation of the ruins as well as a topographic survey to determine the ground plan drawing with the proper dimensions: thickness, length and height of walls and existing openings. Based on information obtained through the historical survey, the spatial organization corresponds to the model found in the north and northeast of the 17th and 18th centuries, with the chapel and the big house in a higher location than the factory and the senzalas. The study of materials recorded the use of stone masonry and lime aggregated to brick masonry and brick shards in the structures of walls and foundations. The site as a whole is established on irregular, high floodplain soil on the banks of the Murutucu stream, which is a tributary of the Guamá River. Records from the previous report reveal the existence of wall foundations that define nine rooms in addition to the veranda. In summary, the Murutucu site presents an imposing architecture, with traces characteristic of the Neoclassical style. The organization of its spaces defines a concern with the supervision of the production system, and also strengthens the authority of the mill lord. The strategic geographical position of the mill favored the generation of motive power and the transport of the product.