Humberstone and Santa Laura Saltpeter Works

Integrity and Authenticity (Chapter 10)

Conservation efforts at Humberstone and Santa Laura Saltpeter Works, while partially altering the original fabric of these industrial heritage sites, have preserved their historical significance. The study reveals that material decay, a natural consequence of arid climates, coexisted with stabilization measures, ensuring the structures' survival without fully erasing their authenticity. This balance highlights how conservation choices reflect key industrial and social processes tied to the site's heritage value.