When we hear the word ‘cultural heritage’ we usually think about art, historical monuments and buildings or archaeological sites. But cultural heritage encapsulates much more than that, and it’s important to protect it for the sake of our own futures, our descendants’ and humanity’s as well. Cultural heritage is not only about objects and physical spaces, it’s also about ideas and values, and the way in which these are transmitted. The term ‘cultural heritage’ is used in a wide range of fields, from cultural policy to tourism and education. But it’s not always easy to define cultural heritage in a way that is useful for everyone. This is why the definitions of cultural heritage vary widely from one context to another, and they are often contested and debated.
As such, the concept of cultural heritage has a profound impact on society. It defines the legacy that humans leave behind for themselves and future generations, and it also shapes the way we deal with the past and the world around us. As such, it’s a key aspect of identity, and people with a strong sense of their own cultural heritage are more empowered to deal with today’s challenges, both at the local and the global level.
A country’s cultural heritage includes its history, traditions, landscapes and natural environment. It is also the accumulated knowledge of its inhabitants and their unique culture, such as folklore, language and religions. All these elements are considered to be part of a nation’s cultural heritage, and they must be protected and maintained. Cultural heritage is essential to a healthy society and the world as we know it.
The preservation and protection of cultural heritage are often difficult, however, because they involve more than just money and resources. A proper evaluation of the financial cost of maintaining a particular object, building or landscape requires taking into account the economic value of all intangible benefits that are derived from it. This requires the application of methodologies, such as revealed and stated preference techniques, that were originally developed for the valuation of intangible environmental benefits.
Many cultural heritage objects and sites are at risk of being destroyed, whether due to neglect or the consequences of conflict and terrorism. This is why it’s so important to preserve them for future generations, and to make the necessary investments. This is why UNESCO has recently started a program to support the conservation of historic cities, such as Aleppo and Mosul in Syria and elsewhere.
Moreover, it’s crucial to understand the role of memory and contested history in the formation of cultural heritage. This is a complex process that involves both individual and shared memories, which are influenced by the cultural context in which they were created. For this reason, it’s worth examining the wider approaches and perspectives of museums, archives and libraries to explore the critical role they play in shaping cultural heritage. It’s also worthwhile looking at the different ways that they address issues such as repatriation, indigenous perspectives, and the role of museums in preserving heritage for the benefit of all people.