Inventory of Real Estate Assets of the Trans-Andean Railroad in the 'Alausí - Bucay' Section: A Study of Valuation and Preservation of the Railroad Heritage

Abstract

Heritage inventories are valuable resources often used to manage, promote and preserve the cultural and natural assets existing in a given area. These inventories often become the basis for the formulation of policies related to heritage protection and conservation; in addition, they play an important role in the dissemination and promotion of these assets. This article presents an exhaustive study on the inventory of real estate heritage assets of the trans-Andean railroad in the 'Alausí - Bucay' section. The main objective of this research was to make an accurate assessment and encourage the preservation of the railway heritage in the region. Through a research approach based on the collection of documentary data and field work to obtain primary information, a total of 80 real estate heritage assets were identified, including terminals, stations, tunnels, bridges and lodging facilities. The findings of the study revealed the remarkable architectural and cultural richness of the existing immovable heritage assets. The conclusions highlight the relevance of preserving these elements as a fundamental part of the region's historical and cultural legacy and also recommend the adoption of measures that allow for greater knowledge of these assets and their interaction with the surrounding natural and social environment.