The Power of Monuments. From Social Unrest to Urban Violence (2020–2023) | O Poder dos Monumentos: Da Agitação Social à Violência Urbana (2020–2023)

This paper examines the complexities of heritage, memory, and monumentality in public spaces, highlighting the dynamic interplay of top-down and bottom-up processes, competing narratives, and the shaping of collective identity. It argues that excluding communities from shaping commemorative landscapes often leads to conflict, with monuments becoming contentious and vandalized. Conversely, unilateral decisions by political elites can deepen social divides. The paper concludes by stressing the need for collaborative, participatory approaches to creating inclusive and democratic public memory.