Centro de interpretação do império de Gaza

Abstract

Without identity, a society loses its value. This is the case of Mozambique, where the colonial assi- milation policy diluted cultural roots by imposing a Eurocentric vision that devalued local traditions. During the colonial period, assimilation required Mozambicans to adopt the Portuguese language, religion, and customs as a means of “civilization,” directly undermining the social and cultural struc- tures of empires such as the Gaza Empire. This empire, beyond being a symbol of resistance against colonial oppression, was one of the main forces shaping the cultural identity of southern Mozambi- que. With accelerated globalization, this trend of cultural erasure persists, further distancing younger generations from their heritage. In this context, the present work aligns with Law no. 10/88 of 22 December, which mandates the protection of both tangible and intangible cultural heritage in Mo- zambique, and establishes that the State is responsible for encouraging the creation of institutions such as interpretation centers, as well as promoting the revitalization of cultural traditions. Accordingly, this proposal envisions the creation of a Gaza Empire Interpretation Center, which will be accessible to the community and play a central role in promoting historical education and cultural cohesion. Architecture, in this sense, emerges as a powerful tool for creating not only physical struc- tures but also immersive and sensorial experiences that connect visitors to their historical roots. To achieve this goal, it is essential to understand the history of the Gaza Empire, the concept of interpretation centers, and how architecture can transform cultural narratives into environments that foster reflection, identity, and belonging