The Allotments of Chelas: The Activation and Transmission of a Practice
Topias Urbanas

Sinopsis

Chelas is marked by the presence of various allotments, created and cared for by the inhabitants of its several neighbourhoods. These small plots express the way in which the local people can transform the space in which they live, shaping it to their needs and desires. Requiring daily treatment, these allotments are fundamental for the sustenance of the inhabitants, but also play an important part in activating memories and cultural practices.

In recent years, some of these spontaneously created allotments have been subjected to interventions by the municipal authorities, leading to the construction of three horticultural parks: Vale de Chelas, Quinta das Flores and Loios. The function afforded by the residents to these plots of open land is recognised by the council and the conditions for the growing of fruit and vegetables have been improved through the provision of points of water supply, shelters and leisure areas. However, the use of the space has been subject to rules and regulations that are somewhat disconnected from the habits of those who previously used the area.

Topias Urbanas proposes a meeting at the Quinta das Flores as the starting point for a conversation about the diversity of the Allotments of Chelas and their role in the lives of those who take care of them.