ABSTRACT
In Mexico, earthen construction techniques were improved during Colonial era as part of culture fusion and cultural melting pot; a mixture between Spain’s techniques and indigenous labor. The use of rammed earth was not as spread as adobe and framework. Nevertheless, it has been identified in Mexico’s central area, where this research was conducted. In this region, several factors influenced the use of rammed earth, such as weather conditions, water scarcity, raw materials availability and worker’s skills. The present research evaluated the technical, constructive and morphological characteristics of rammed earth in Mexico and identified some of its peculiarities and differences, which correlated with the technological development of the region. These characteristics were strongly influenced by environmental and historical conditions. Overall, we propose that this characterization could lead to a more realistic and objective perspective of the built heritage, contributing to a sustainable architecture approach.
