Here’s the translation to American English:
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The Guadalajara Branch of the Official College of Architects of Castilla-La Mancha closed the lecture series titled “Guadalajara, the City We Want” with a presentation by architect and professor Miguel Ángel Baldellou. The lecture, held at the Provincial Historical Archive, was introduced by Patricia García Caballero, the branch president and a former student of the speaker, who highlighted Baldellou’s notable professional trajectory in the field of architecture.
During his talk, Baldellou emphasized the importance of creating livable urban spaces that protect heritage, warning about the dangers posed by urban decay. “In many cases, we architects are necessary collaborators in that degradation when we should be the opposite,” he stated. This assertion underscores the responsibility of professionals in designing and developing sustainable urban environments.
The professor also addressed the key role of professional colleges in discussing the challenges facing the urban environment. “Heritage goes beyond monumental buildings. It’s the air we breathe, the sounds of its streets, the sense of emptiness,” he explained, urging citizens to take an active role in caring for their city.
The lecture series has explored various perspectives on improving the city, including innovations such as the “superblocks” model presented by urban planner Salvador Rueda and an analysis by economist José Antonio Herce San Miguel on the economic and strategic importance of intermediate cities like Guadalajara.
Miguel Solano, a member of the Branch, highlighted that urban planning is essential for coexistence, while president Patricia García Caballero reaffirmed that heritage is not limited to the old but also includes what gives identity and quality to urban spaces. The event concluded with the presence of the dean of COACM, Elena Guijarro, who expressed her satisfaction with the success of the series and the quality of the speakers.
Source: MiMub in Spanish
