Analysis and proposal for the valorisation of the Molí de la Sal or del Salt in the Huerta de Burjassot (Valencia)

Abstract

The Molí de la Sal is a hydraulic mill with a horizontal wheel situated in the historical irrigation system of the Tormos canal, one of the seven canals of the Tribunal de las Aguas de la Vega de Valencia. It is located in the Huerta de Burjassot, within an area designated for special protection due to its exceptional agricultural and landscape values. The heritage asset is testimony to the agricultural history of the locality and has been declared an Asset of Local Relevance, which confirms its high cultural value. However, the element is currently in an advanced state of abandonment. This research aims to analyse the characteristics and context of the Molí de la Sal and to develop a strategy to enhance its value, focusing on its museumization. To this end, an exhaustive bibliographical review, fieldwork and participatory processes with the main territorial agents have been carried out. The results obtained show that, although the mill is in a poor state of conservation, its significant heritage values confirm the need for its restitution and enhancement. The proposed action plan includes the archaeological excavation of the element, as well as the rehabilitation of the building and the annexed constructions. A museumization strategy has been developed, through the creation of exhibitions that integrate the historical machinery and other elements, along with the display of three thematic collections related to ethnography. The proposed planning has allowed the formulation of a project with a high degree of applicability, aimed at the enhancement of the Molí de la Sal and its associated water landscape.