Fundidora Monterrey industrial archaeology site: historical and touristic heritage conservation

During the last decades, the idea of investing in tourism development through industrial sites revitalization has been well practiced. Usually, cultural projects and tourism infrastructure promote urban revitalization, and place value to heritage resources. As such, industrial sites may be converted into tourism destinations. The inclusion of cultural venues, heritage resources and tourist attractions are main features to focus when developing a sense of place. Historical places, heritage buildings, ethnic traditions, and even local food are means of attraction, in times when authenticity and the tourist experience is valued.

Fundidora Monterrey is a remarkable example of this worldwide trend. One of the most famous city landmarks, it used to be the main steel provider in Mexico and South America, at least for 80 years. A company being established 120 years ago, it was in operation for eight decades and covered the employment needs on the northeast region. When the company closed down, mainly due to financial constraints, the land, machinery and equipment were abandoned. The land kept idle and the machinery became rusty.

Fortunately, a group of concerned citizens came together and started few initiatives to recover the place. They succeeded and were able to establish a fund supported by the state government, private companies and NGOs. The main goal was to preserve the heritage and to offer a diverse use for the land available. As a result, Parque Fundidora was created, a public park for local population and visitors, who enjoy the beauty of our cultural/industrial heritage and the outdoor environment.

This paper will address the historic and heritage impact Parque Fundidora is having on locals and visitors, and will provide key features and guidelines of the steps taken by the park to preserve its cultural and industrial heritage. As well, it will deals with suggestions for adapted infrastructure existing in the park, and how it is attracting national and international tourists to the site. Conservation of historic buildings and heritage infrastructures could be one of the most ambitious projects. Preserving churches and monasteries, castles and palaces, caves, bullfighting arenas, and wind mills are only few examples of this tourism trend. Old factories and industrial sites are also having their contribution to heritage preservation. Cultural and heritage tourism is one of the most rapidly growing fields in tourism, but looking at industrial heritage is being taken seriously just recently.