ABSTRACT
In the last decades, the traditional type of domestic architecture of the Cordillera de Sama Biological Reserve (hereinafter CSBR) is undergoing transformation processes and habitat improvements occasionally developed by government policies with NGOs’ support. In many cases, these actions have led to the implementation of a necessary toilet or latrine, but there have also been inappropriate transformations or replacements to the local tradition, built with exogenous materials and systems. The main objective of the work here presented is to perform a critical analysis of the traditional architecture of the CSBR and to assess its capacity to respond to the contemporary needs of Sama inhabitants. It also examines whether or not the loss of this traditional habitat (including the impact of its transformations) can lead to the irreparable loss of cultural identity and heritage values in the area of the CSBR.
