When The Modern Was Hidden. La Aurora Airport Case

Abstract

Around 1965 Guatemala needed to have a more functional air terminal. Thus, the new
La Aurora Airport was designed and built, the aim was to meet the demands of airlines, cargo transport and passengers. It was a building that responded formally with
the guidelines of the modern movement. At the time it became very valued by the
population, being an important investment for the country and symbol of progress,
pride and beauty. It worked properly for a very short time, as the demands for airports
have steadily increased and Guatemala has not been able to adapt to this. Like this
again, in 2005 an enlargement was made, but for this, it was hidden inside another
envelope. The spaces were modified and their initial form was hidden. It was completely devalued, reducing to supporting structure. The 40 years of history and what it represented were not enough to undermine cultural heritage. This study seeks to analyze why it was devalued and identify the causes that allowed it to be hidden. It is a study from the theory of the restoration that identifies the characteristics and values lost, in order to make the society aware of the importance of the integral conservation of its heritage.