Tailored for professionals and enthusiasts in the field, the report passionately advocates for the recognition of cultural heritage as a non-renewable resource essential for our collective future. It unfolds the nuanced role of heritage in shaping the economy, environment, and societal fabric, emphasising its dynamic nature as a living asset that evolves and can be shaped through engagement.
The report traces the European Union’s commitment to fostering a forward-looking approach to cultural heritage, challenging the perception of heritage as a static relic to be conserved. Instead, it positions heritage as a strategic force contributing to a shared European identity, community cohesion, and even job creation. The document showcases how cultural heritage research has birthed innovations spanning tangible, intangible, and digital aspects. These innovations, ranging from protection and preservation to immersive experiences, extend beyond heritage, offering solutions transferable to other fields, such as environmental monitoring.
Moreover, the document introduces the concept of the Community of Innovators in Cultural Heritage, a community that responds to the imperative of bridging the gap between research, society, and the market. It acts as a platform bringing together innovation providers, supporters, and end-users, fostering an ecosystem that transcends silos and disciplines. As the report presents a collection of results achieved by EU-funded projects, it reinforces the commitment to investing in cultural heritage and supporting open processes of innovation. The European Year of Cultural Heritage 2018 serves as a backdrop for this collection of innovations, highlighting the EU’s dedication to preserving and leveraging cultural heritage as a catalyst for positive change.
