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 core issue of quality, providing a summary of key concepts, international charters, European and international conventions and standards as well as changes in understanding and practice of heritage conservation. Environmental, cultural, social and economic benefits resulting from the application of quality principles are outlined.
Given that the recognition of cultural heritage as a common good and responsibility is a precondition of quality, it is proposed to adopt quality measures through raising awareness and by strengthening the implementation of conservation principles and standards at every stage of the cycle, from programming to evaluation. Stakeholders cover European institutions, managing authorities, international organisations, civil society and local communities, the private sector, and experts.
By providing a detailed overview of quality principles and best practices in heritage conservation, this European Heritage resource serves as a valuable tool for stakeholders involved in EU-funded projects impacting cultural heritage. It offers a roadmap for maintaining the integrity of heritage assets, fostering community engagement, and ensuring the long-term sustainability of cultural heritage sites across Europe.
