Multidimensional perspectives on the morphology of peripheral neighborhoods in Tunja, Colombia

Abstract

The research was carried out in three peripheral neighborhoods of the city of Tunja (Altos de Cooservicios, Altamira, and Santa Elena). Its objective was to analyze the social, economic and ecological issues affecting these areas through a cartographic survey and specific assessment forms. The methodology combined planimetric analysis, field visits, photographic records, and informal interviews, allowing the identification of key factors such as inadequate access, encroachment on public spaces, and security problems. Descriptive and correlational techniques were applied to examine the relationships among the collected variables and prioritize the most critical issues. The results show that the morphological conditions and socioeconomic characteristics of each neighborhood are strongly linked to the observed levels of vulnerability, as well as to their interaction with adjacent neighborhoods. In the discussion, emphasis is placed on the importance of differentiated interventions in each neighborhood, considering topography, connectivity, and community participation to achieve more effective and sustainable solutions. Likewise, the practical implications of the findings are underscored. Finally, the conclusions highlight the usefulness of the proposed methodology as a replicable tool in similar urban contexts, along with its potential to guide public policies and intervention strategies focused on the needs of peripheral communities.