Modernist architecture and the urban transformation of Maputo, Mozambique, between history and modernity.
The modernist architecture of Maputo is the protagonist of this book: the ground floors of its buildings serve as a lens to explore the transformation of post-colonial cities, focusing on streets, public spaces and urban change. Giovanna Silva's photography captures the city's evolving landscape and social fabric, while interviews with Ana Tostões and Ana Raquel Machava provide insights into Maputo's architectural heritage and challenges. Architects Matteo Poli and Luca Astorri (AOUMM) discuss its possible futures and enduring legacies, examining globalisation, resilience and identity. The book highlights the dynamic interplay between history and modernity, offering a broader reflection on urban adaptation and transformation in post-colonial contexts; as well as the importance of preserving and studying these modernist structures to create a sustainable and inclusive future for Maputo.
Giovanna Silva (born 1980 in Milan) is an Italian photographer, writer and publisher. Her photographic books have been published by Mousse, Hatje Cantz, and Nero among others. Her work has been shown at the 10th and 14th Venice architectural biennales, MACRO in Rome, Fondazione Bevilacqua La Masa in Venice, the Triennale in Milan, the American Academy in Rome, FRAC Orléans, c/o Berlin, the Biennale de Rabat 2019, and the Italian Cultural Institute in New York. She is the founder and Editor-in-Chief of Humboldt Books and the co-founder of San Rocco magazine. She teaches Photography at NABA Milan, IUAV Venice's master in photography program, and ISIA Urbino.
Luca Astorri is an Italian architect, co-founder of the architectural practice AOUMM based in Milan.
Matteo Poli is an Italian architect, co-founder of AOUMM.
