Entre o arcabouço e o silenciamento: memória, patrimônio e turismo no Cemitério Municipal de São João

Abstract

The Municipal Cemetery of São João, a historical monument in the state of Amazonas, is facing a preservation crisis that threatens its historical and cultural identity. This identity is provided by the presence of various elements within the cemetery, including sculptures, architecture, genealogical records, and its tourism potential, which is enabled by the assembly of all the tangible and intangible cultural assets present there. Each of these aspects contributes to the cultural and historical richness of São João, making it, therefore, an important heritage site to be preserved. This study aims to investigate the impacts caused by the neglect and degradation of cultural heritage in this emblematic cemetery of Manaus. Through a thorough research, the philosophical, sociological, and historical dimensions of cultural memory are analyzed, as well as the factors contributing to the deterioration of the space and monuments. The objective is to highlight the importance of preserving cultural heritage as a means to strengthen the identity, the aesthetic appreciation by Amazonian society, and the tourism potential of this place, aimed at both residents of Amazonas and non-residents. Additionally, it proposes measures to reverse the gradual decline of this important historical symbol.