Leonardo da Vinci Program Pilot Project Local Agenda 21
Training Module F-Integrated Conservation of Cultural Heritage
Application of Integrated Conservation strategies
and approaches in different kinds of built-up
environments including cultural heritage
(Training Unit f.1-2 - Abstract)
1 Abstract
The objective of this training model unit is to give basic understanding of how an
approach based on “integrated conservation of built environments” can be
implemented and used as a planning instrument in connection with “ordinary
landscapes” and urban districts – including “cultural heritage” – in this context
referring to buildings and built environment, entitled to be of cultural significance.
An approach of this kind is supposed to include a broad interdisciplinary methodology
paying attention to economic, technical and scientific aspects as well as social and
cultural dimensions and issues concerning life conditions, working life, local cultural
patterns and social net-works. To develop a sound understanding of integrated
conservation strategies of this kind, a distinct theoretical framework based on
fundamental concepts in the field is important, as well as an overview of international
agreements, principal documents and guidelines related to cultural heritage, built
environment and sustainable development.
Other fields of knowledge that will be enlightened are how the planning process
works to enable possibilities for different groups or individuals to improve their
influence and to be aware of related constraints. Within the objective for this training
model the fundamental epistemological concepts “basic” and “strategic” will be used
and discussed in relation to different kinds of objects and planning situations.
Processes based on integrated conservation strategies can be designated as
maintenance, rehabilitation or up-grading, as well as historic preservation, restoration
or conservation – depending on the specific district, building, etc. The main objective
is to train the participants in identifying and analysing various kinds of problems, to be
prepared to find creative suggestions of solutions in their own neighbourhoods, being
aware of what kinds of achievements and operations that might be needed in a
specific case (maintenance, up-grading, conservation etc). Further, it has to be
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Leonardo da Vinci Program Pilot Project Local Agenda 21
considered, what kinds of net-works, competencies, professionals, local
entrepreneurs etc that are needed and might be appropriate to co-operate with.
Intrinsic studies, with use of relevant methods, are fundamental instruments to attain
an awareness of the specific problems – as a basic platform for making “diagnosis”
with the aim to “invigorate” existing buildings and settlements - and to develop
prerequisites for a good livelihood. The interplay between the built-up environment
and its inhabitants is focused, aiming at strengthening the local economy as a base
for creation of jobs, as well as improving democratic planning procedures and local
participation in decision-making processes, creating an arena for dialogues between
inhabitants, owners, enterprises and city-planners. To achieve actual public
participation in societal activities of this kind, studies focusing the use and function of
collective spheres and spaces as integrated parts of local public life are of
fundamental importance, as well as documentation of distinct preferences and
valuations associated to the environment, e.g. specific symbolic values of vital
importance for owners and different groups of inhabitants.
To provide an overview and an understanding of the approach of an integrated
conservation methodology, the overall perspective may be divided into distinct
components just as being parts of a complex system:
Basic knowledge
Basic knowledge of terminology in the field of integrated conservation of built
environment including cultural heritage related to sustainable development.
Understanding of relevant use of basic concepts in different situations. Knowledge
about international agreements and documents as well as principal guidelines
concerning cultural heritage.
Strategic knowledge
Since “integrated conservation strategies” represent a manifold of complex
approaches and working processes - observing social, cultural, technical, economic
and ecological dimensions - various areas of knowledge and kinds of skills have to
be combined in a creative way complementing each other, as follows:
General knowledge about social and cultural history, systems for analysing art
and architecture, cultural landscapes and different kinds of built-up
environments.
Acquaintance with models and methods of elaboration of various kinds of
characterisations and valuations of built environments and cultural heritage.
Ability to identify different kinds of urban processes and planning situations.
Familiarity with the planning process and legislative instruments, which
improves the possibilities to influence certain development and the participation
of citizens.
Awareness of what kinds of categories of actors and professionals that are
represented and are contributing to the composition of functioning integrated
conservation strategies.
Capacity of building networks and common local platforms.
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Leonardo da Vinci Program Pilot Project Local Agenda 21
Instrumental knowledge
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Ability to plan, overview, implement and follow up different phases in the
working process of an “integrated conservation” methodology.
In this context abilities of specific concern are capacity for overview and to
synthetisize “local analyses” based on manyfolded perspectives and kinds of
studies.
2 Keywords
Authenticity, Built environment, Collective memory, Conservation, Cultural
heritage, Cultural landscape, Cultural resources, Cultural significance, Cultural
value, Genius loci, Gentrification, ICCROM, ICOMOS, Intangible dimensions,
Integrated conservation, Local identity, Preservation, Preventive conservation,
Restoration, Socio-economic values, Sources, UNESCO, UN-Habitat, Urban
landscape, World Cultural Heritage Sites.
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