Place, history and memory: Vila Murtinho, a place without place

Abstract

The article addresses the history of Vila Murtinho, a community that emerged during the construction of the Madeira-Mamoré Railway (EFMM), highlighting its importance in the context of the Rubber Cycle and its subsequent decline after the railway was deactivated. Using concepts such as place and locality, the text reflects on the relationship between inhabitants and the environment, highlighting the need to preserve not only material aspects, but also memories and experiences linked to the place. Tuan and Relph provide perspectives on spatial experience and people's relationship to place, emphasizing the importance of emotional and subjective ties. Non-placeness is discussed as a lack of emotional or cultural connection with a specific space, and in this article we debate the resilience of Vila Murtinho as a place despite its apparent non-placeness, highlighting the deep human memories and experiences that continue to echo in the landscape. Thus, the history and abandonment of the railway not only highlight the complex interaction between space, place and geography, but also highlight the resilience of Vila Murtinho as a place, whose identity and meaning continue to be shaped by human experiences and the deep relationship with the environment. environment in which they live.