Explore the dynamic relationship between cultural heritage and resilience in the context of European heritage preservation. The document delves into the concept of cultural resilience and its role in sustaining heritage for future generations. It highlights the importance of adapting and transforming heritage to absorb disturbances and promote societal resilience.
Archaeological sites and monuments in particular are widely perceived to be vulnerable and subjected to growing risks of deliberate destruction, e.g. in the context of armed conflicts. At the same time, it has become a familiar claim that cultural heritage needs to be conserved as an important resource for fostering cultural resilience, reducing disaster risk, and supporting peace and reconciliation in the future. In this paper, the author takes issue with that latter view and suggests instead that cultural resilience, risk preparedness, post-disaster recovery and mutual understanding between people will be best enhanced by an increased ability to accept loss and transformation.
The document challenges traditional preservation approaches by suggesting that heritage conservation should focus on facilitating adaptation and embracing uncertainty. The evident changes of heritage over time can inspire people to embrace uncertainty and absorb adversity in times of change, thus increasing their cultural resilience. By understanding the adaptive nature of cultural heritage, individuals can better appreciate its significance and contribute to its sustainability. The insights presented encourage a shift towards valuing heritage for its societal impact and ability to inspire resilience in the face of change.
