Gentrification and counter-gentrification processes. The Abasto and Northern Markets in Gran San Miguel de Tucuman (Northwestern Argentina)

Authors

  • Paula Luciana Boldrini Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas
  • Matilde Malizia Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas

Abstract

The influence of globalization-related dynamics such as the growing commodification of urban space and the emergence of new forms of real estate production has resulted in cities being transformed through new social and spatial mechanics. One of these forces is the rehabilitation and revaluation of deteriorated urban areas by means of a process known as gentrification, in which new territorial, political and economic expressions are configured. This process is also tied to struggles for the protection of the territory, which emerge as the other side of gentrification, namely counter-gentrification.
This paper analyzes the characteristics of the socio-spatial changes in two markets located in Gran San Miguel de Tucuman (Northwestern Argentina) and whether these transformations fit within the category of gentrification. To do so, the different socio-spatial changes in these markets and their surroundings are identified through the analysis of changes in the use of land, the perspectives of social actors and the urban context that saw the emergence and development of these transformations. In this way, the objective of this research is accomplished and new knowledge related to the chronology of these events is produced; thus emerging as development phases within gentrification processes.

Author Biographies

Paula Luciana Boldrini, Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas

Architect, National University of Tucuman. MSc in Social Psychology, National University of Tucuman. PhD in Social Sciences (Geography-oriented), National University of Tucuman. Post-doctoral fellow, National Council on Scientific and Technical Research, CONICET. Email: paula_boldrini@hotmail.com

Matilde Malizia, Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas

BA in Social Work, National University of Tucuman. PhD in Social Sciences (Geography-oriented), National University of Tucuman. Post-doctoral fellow, National Council on Scientific and Technical Research, CONICET. Email: matumalizia@yahoo.com.ar