Forum. Mining and Plain-Factory Civilizations of Russia: Industrial Heritage and Urban Identity

Abstract

Based on discussions with experts, this paper studies how the historical industrial heritage in Russian cities is treated today and what role it plays in shaping urban identity and environment. To focus the discussion, we chose two historical industrial regions with unique and recognizable characteristics: the “mining civilization” of the Urals and the textile “plain-factory civilization” of the north-east part of central Russia. According to the experts, the great industrial heritage of the Urals is gradually being assimilated by cities and incorporated into the urban environment and identity. Factory cities in search of identity are returning to their origins. But how does this process work? Does it fit, for example, into the dilemma of “demolition or revitalization”? What goals are set in this case? Does this happen in small towns of the region? The experts disagree. Experience shows that an important role is played by the industrial giants themselves, who, along with the cities, use their heritage. However, industrial identity is not dominant everywhere in the Urals, even while being supported by thriving industry. For example, in the Perm region it is complemented by the search for new meanings of contemporary culture. The fate of plain-factory civilizations is different. Factory cities, urbanistically and aesthetically shaped by their industries, became just cities. The crisis of the textile industry and the disappearance or decline of enterprises has left cities with an industrial heritage, but one which is mostly excluded from city life. Therefore, efforts to build local identity directly on this basis, are unsuccessful, which forces cities to look for workarounds to master this heritage, for example, through an emphasis on the unique constructivist architecture.