Differences in the theory and practice of the preservation of monuments and the protection of cultural heritage sites

Abstract

The paper explores theoretical and practical approaches to legal, social, economic, commercial and cultural issues, with reference to management strategies for the protection of monuments. These have semantic meanings and connotations which, in practical terms, raise a variety of issues concerning the care, protection, security, preservation and restoration of monuments, together with the preservation of national heritage sites and concerning contemporary practices of drafting, approving and implementingn local development plans. The paper examines the operation of State policy, as well as a range of regional and supra-local methods governing the work of management practicen teams, in relation to architectural monuments and the process of urbanization. The paper draws together creative attitudes and approaches to the funding and patronage of monuments listed as world cultural heritage sites by UNESCO and the current need for controls over conservation activities to be standardized under statute. The paper sets out a number of key principles for the protection and conservation of historical buildings and architectural monuments with a view towards the need for sustainable development.