The documentation of conservation-restoration interventions in cultural heritage is a crucial process that spans before, during, and after the interventions, significantly impacting heritage preservation. This research scrutinises the recommendations and regulations governing these processes, tracing their evolution from inception to their current status at both international and national levels.
To achieve its objective, the study analyses various sources, including international doctrines, the Spanish Historical Heritage Law, regional legislation, and contributions from the preliminary draft reform of the LPHE (Law of Historical Heritage of Spain). The examination reveals trends in how these regulations have evolved and adapted over time.
Findings indicate that international doctrines tend to expand or progressively complement existing regulations, influencing the development of conservation-restoration practices. In Spain, each autonomous community has established territorial laws dictating intervention processes, with variations observed between regions.
Legislative updates in Spain demonstrate a growing emphasis on delineating documentation requirements for conservation-restoration interventions. Notably, there is an increasing inclusion of preventive programmes as prerequisites within intervention projects, reflecting a broader trend towards comprehensive documentation and proactive measures in safeguarding cultural heritage assets.
Overall, this research sheds light on the evolving landscape of conservation-restoration documentation, highlighting the importance of aligning international standards with national regulations to ensure effective heritage preservation practices. Professionals and enthusiasts in the field of cultural heritage will find valuable insights into the regulatory framework governing conservation-restoration interventions, contributing to ongoing discussions on best practices in heritage conservation.