Between Silence and Recognition: Interpreting the Legacy of Slavery at Valongo Wharf

This thesis explores how dissonant heritage can be approached as a vehicle for memory, social justice, and cultural recognition, through the case study of the Valongo Wharf. Located in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, it is the most important physical trace of the arrival of African slaves on the American continent and was recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2017. The site has long been subjected to erasure, marginalization, and silencing, being rediscovered in 2011 through archaeological excavations. Despite its global significance, it still lacks a place dedicated to its memory, interpretation and to show its archaeological findings. One of the main goals is to understand how the slave trade influenced the urban space of Rio de Janeiro and affected the social-political context, leading to the systematic erasure of narratives and forgotten heritage. The research investigates Valongo Wharf history since its construction in 1811 and how the archaeological site has been managed since the excavations in 2011, following its listing as an UNESCO World Heritage Site, until now, giving an insight into the process of patrimonialization, conservation strategies applied, controversies, decisions and the actors involved. Through an assessment of what’s been done it was possible to understand the current situation of the site, all the demands and hypothesize potential measures and paths to follow in the future with an intervention, seeking to preserve and enhance the memory of the place. Through case studies, both globally and in Brazil, the study shows how heritage linked to slavery has been dealt, preserved and represented, focusing on the potential of architecture to mediate memory and historical trauma. By a territorial, historical and socio-cultural analysis, the aim is to reflect on the legacy of slavery, understand its impacts on the Valongo Wharf and propose a spatial intervention dedicated to collective memory, where visitors can learn more about the site, its importance and contributions connected to African heritage.