Heritage Library – Page 50 – European Heritage Hub

Considerations about foxing stains in three paper collections ranging from the 16th to the 20th century

27 November 2020

The article discusses the study of foxing stains in papers from the 16th to 20th centuries in Portuguese collections. The authors found that iron impurities, moisture absorbency, and new papermaking processes played a role in foxing stain formation. Visual observation and digital imaging were used to analyse selected batches of papers. Different paper types and historical periods showed varying degrees of foxing, with gelatine sizing and iron impurities being key factors. The presence of iron-containing impurities throughout the paper leaf was highlighted as a catalyst for the oxidation of cellulose,

Colored Microbial Coatings in Show Caves from the Galapagos Islands (Ecuador): First Microbiological Approach

22 November 2020

The Galapagos Islands, declared a Natural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO in 1978, have garnered scientific interest since the nineteenth century due to their pivotal role in Charles Darwin’s Theory of Evolution. Despite numerous studies on the fauna and flora of the archipelago, research on microorganisms from the underground lava tubes remains limited. These unexplored subterranean environments are crucial components of the islands’ geodiversity, hosting unique geological and geomorphological features that contribute significantly to the archipelago’s heritage. The microbial communities found in the lava tubes, particularly in Royal Palm Cave

A green make-over for heritage buildings

10 November 2020

Discover how Lisbon’s City Hall underwent a remarkable green makeover, blending heritage preservation with sustainable practices. This insightful article explores the integration of eco-friendly technologies into historic buildings, illustrating the intersection of tradition and innovation in urban development. Within the vibrant tapestry of Lisbon’s architectural heritage, Paços do Concelho City Hall stands as a testament to the city’s rich history. Yet, behind its timeless facade lies a modern ambition: to pioneer sustainable solutions within historic contexts. Through meticulous renovation and strategic upgrades, Lisbon’s City Hall showcases the harmonious coexistence of

Togetherness – A New Heritage Deal for Europe

10 November 2020

Discover the compelling vision for the future of Europe’s cultural heritage in this essay. Advocating for a “New Heritage Deal for Europe,” the document presents a comprehensive analysis of the pivotal role that cultural heritage plays in shaping the continent’s identity and future. It highlights the overwhelming support for cultural heritage among Europeans, with statistics revealing that 84% of Europeans consider it important for their community and 91% find it significant for their country. The essay underscores the urgent need for increased investments in cultural heritage, emphasising its potential to

European Heritage Awards 2020: Grand Prix, Public Choice Award & ILUCIDARE Special Prize winners

9 November 2020

In 2020 the European Heritage Awards / Europa Nostra Awards, Europe’s highest honour in the field of cultural heritage, recognised 21 outstanding achievements from 15 European countries. This annual publication a spotlight on the 2020 laureates of the Grand Prix, which were selected by the Awards’ Juries and the Board of Europa Nostra from among the winners. Namely the exemplary restoration of the Basilica of Santa Maria di Collemaggio in l’Aquila (Italy), heavily damaged by the devastating earthquake of 2009; the Tramontana Network III (France, Italy, Poland, Portugal and Spain),

European Quality Principles for EU-funded Interventions

1 November 2020

This Quality Principles document stems from the work of an expert group assembled by the International Council on Monuments and Sites (ICOMOS), under the mandate of the European Commission. It highlights the significance of quality in heritage interventions, outlining essential concepts, international charters, and conventions that shape heritage conservation practices. The main objective of the document is to provide guidance on quality principles for all stakeholders directly or indirectly engaged in EU-funded interventions that could impact on cultural heritage, mainly built heritage and cultural landscapes. The document focuses on the

Good practices in building cultural heritage resilience

1 November 2020

This document prepared in the framework of the European project ARCH-Advancing Resilience of historic areas against Climate-related and other Hazards, explores how historic areas can become more resilient to climate-related dangers. It provides an overview of 40 initiatives designed to improve cultural heritage resilience, detailing their locations, regions, and leading organisations. The report includes 32 brief snapshots and eight detailed case studies, highlighting the outcomes, success factors, and lessons from each initiative. It also offers criteria for evaluating how these initiatives could be applied to other urban areas, offering guidance

Microscopia e Microanálise no Estudo de Pedras Ornamentais Carbonatadas

30 October 2020

The article discusses the challenges faced by European countries in the production and export of Ornamental Stone due to the increasing competitiveness of emerging economies. To enhance the value of their products, these countries need to incorporate technology. The use of microscopy and microanalysis techniques is highlighted through three cases, showcasing how they can help anticipate and understand the behaviour of rocks under various climatic conditions. These methodologies are applicable to new construction rocks and heritage objects, aiding in their characterisation, valorisation, and conservation. The competitive landscape, with countries like

El papel de las asociaciones en la conservación del patrimonio cultural

26 October 2020

The webinar illuminates the crucial role of associations in conserving cultural heritage within rural areas, with particular emphasis on ICOMOS (International Council on Monuments and Sites). As an international organisation dedicated to preserving cultural heritage, both tangible and intangible, ICOMOS is instrumental in promoting conservation efforts globally. Comprising professionals in monumental restoration, ICOMOS operates throughout Spain, aiming to cultivate knowledge, foster reflection, and disseminate disciplines pertinent to monumental restoration. Mikel Landa, president of the ICOMOS Advisory Council, spearheaded the webinar, providing insights into the objectives, structure, and activities of this

The future of circular environmental impact indicators for cultural heritage buildings in Europe

23 October 2020

The study showcases best practices in environmental impact assessment at the project level. The European building and construction sector is resource-intensive, making the renovation of existing buildings, including cultural heritage buildings, important for reducing the sector’s environmental impact. However, there is a misalignment between macro-level European Circular Economy (CE) policies and the micro-level renovation and management of existing buildings and cultural heritage buildings. The article proposes a new framework for Adaptive Reuse of Cultural Heritage (ARCH) to bridge this gap: a Circular Environmental Impact Indicator Framework. The framework includes

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