Is it possible to share an integrative vision of culture and nature? Are we talking about biocultural heritage? How can we define it or support its definition through concrete examples of landscapes, professions, customs or land use planning?
The prestigious University of Coimbra in Portugal organised a symposium on these topics on 20 and 21 May 2025, featuring numerous round tables and workshops with academics and their close partners from many European countries.
AQUA! was able to present a collective work entitled ‘Rethinking historic water mills as socio-ecological infrastructures for river and landscape management’, thanks to the presence of Gilles de Selva, owner of a water mill in the Indre region (France).
Some excerpts from the presentation summary:
“Rivers, canals, and wetlands are not untouched “natural” spaces, but dynamic environments shaped by centuries of water management systems—among which watermills stand as one of the most widespread and enduring elements.“
“Therefore, managing watermill landscapes involves navigating complex interactions between environmental, land-use, and heritage policies, with often conflictual targets, interests and complexities.”
“Recognizing watermills as dynamic, multifunctional infrastructures rather than static heritage sites is essential for unlocking their full potential in sustainable landscape management, while also respecting environmental targets.“