Mapping techniques applied to the study of São Paulo city architectonic epigraphy

Abstract

This paper summarizes some findings of a research on typographic elements found in São Paulo city central
area. Using mapping methodology, we show that based on the information found in certain inscriptions in the
building façades, it is possible to identify patterns and paths of settlement in this area, specially in what
regards authorship and dates of design and construction. Although many of the edifices studied are part of the
city heritage, heritage files very often lack this kind of information, which can be found in architectonic
epigraphs. Defined as signatures, public and everlasting records of design authorship, epigraphs might also
be analyzed as an example of visual design applied to the city.