Historical landscapes: An international preservation perspective

Abstract

Tishler, W.H., 1982. Historical landscapes: an international preservation perspective. Landscape Plann., 9: 91–103. Wheras traditionally, historical preservation efforts have generally dealt with the landscape as an adjunct to significant buildings, we have come to realize that the historic landscape involves much more than mere architectural embellishment. In addition to buildings, the historic landscape embraces a broad and complex assemblage of interrelated natural and cultural features that establish the essential fabric for many historic sites, districts, neighborhoods, communities, and even entire regions. This paper examines the background and philosophy of historic/cultural landscapes as set forth by the work of cultural geographers and other disciplines. It then traces the evolving role of the landscape in American historic preservation activities from early beginnings in the nineteenth century through the more recent influence of the environmental movement. These observations are based upon present activities in the field, current literature, expanding perceptions of the profession of landscape architecture, and the evolving policies of public programs. International historic landscape preservation activities are then elaborated upon and special emphasis is given to the International Council of Monuments and Sites (ICOMOS), the UNESCO World Heritage Program, and the International Centre for the Study of the Preservation and Restoration of Cultural Property (ICCROM). Finally, a broader IFLA role is suggested regarding world cultural resource conservation. The preservation of historic landscapes is a complex and multi-faceted problem because it is embroiled in issues relating to land use, urban sprawl , preservation of agricultural land, and natural resource conservation. Yet, in the words of the eminent British historian, W.H. Hoskins, “the (human)… landscape itself, to those who know how to read it aright, is the richest historical record we possess (1955, p. 14).” The essence of our heritage, preservationists have always argued, is displayed in buildings and structures. Now we must work to bring the landscape itself to this same level of recognition and acceptance.