The production of urban space in Latin America is a complex and multifaceted process that has been shaped by a rich and diverse history. In Ibagué, Colombia, the relationship between urban space and nature has been particularly significant, with the city's growth and development influenced by various historical processes. At the forefront of this analysis is the concept of the [longue durée](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Longue_dur%C3%A9e), a historical perspective that takes into account the long-term and often invisible processes that shape the development of human societies. This approach allows us to examine the evolution of Ibagué's urban space over time, from its early days as a colonial outpost to its current status as a thriving metropolis.
The city's relationship with nature has been shaped by three key historical processes: 1) the conquest and colonization of the New World, which brought European settlers to the Americas and had a profound impact on the indigenous population and the natural environment; 2) the development of the modern city, which saw the creation of new urban infrastructures and the transformation of natural spaces into urban areas; and 3) the growth of the metropolitan edge, which has led to the expansion of the city into surrounding rural areas.
To explore these processes, an analysis of primary sources was undertaken, including written materials such as chronicles, royal ordinances, municipal decrees, pilot plans for urban growth, and urban development plans. Visual materials such as maps, sketches, engravings, and photographs were also examined to construct a nuanced image of the city and its relationship with nature.
The results of this analysis highlighted the importance of considering the relationship between urban space and nature in urban planning, as two inseparable elements that have shaped the development of Ibagué and other Latin American cities. This perspective provides valuable insights into the environmental problems of contemporary cities and offers a framework for evaluating the consequences of human activities on the natural environment.