Between romantic historic landscapes, rational management models and obliterations – urban cemeteries as green memory sites

Abstract

Some researchers have claimed that cultural heritage can best be understood as ‘the contemporary use of the past’ (Graham et al., 2000). While parts of heritage may be material remains of a long forgotten past, the way these fragments are viewed, interpreted and appreciated as social and cultural assets is a product of today. The basis of this paper is a study of the role that old cemeteries play as green public spaces in contemporary cities. The layout of the cemeteries and their locations within cities influences their everyday use. By comparing three urban cemeteries, one in Oslo (Norway), one in Sheffield (United Kingdom) and one in Kaliningrad (Russia), this article will reflect on how these city’s histories have influenced the form and layout of the cemeteries, as well as their potential roles as future green areas in a modern urban context. At present, one of the cemeteries is in active use, one is a secluded public garden, and the third is on the verge of obliteration. Their common denominator is the character they share as memory sites. They can be read as a complex conflation of religious and moral belief, societal power and hierarchy, landscape and architectural ideals, health legislation and management practices. Their prospects as historic assets valued in future urban development are dependent both on planning contexts and strong cooperation with those who care about their future.