Historical preservation in globalizing nanjing - The case study of Laomendong, Nanjing, China

Abstract

China provides a unique context to explore urban heritage within the current trend of globalization. In 2014, the Youth Olympic Games held in Nanjing, the impact of the Olympics is not only limited to improving urban branding, but also as a main driven force of urban transformation. This paper examines the role of historical buildings in reshaping the new space of post-industry cities. Focusing on heritage space through a detailed case study of Laomendong, a historical feature area located in the inner city of Nanjing, where attracted consumers and tourists with its historical buildings and culture. Historically, it is the main area connecting the inner city and city wall of imperial Nanjing. During the Ming-Qing period, Laomendong was a booming area, as residents and commercial activities were located here. After reconstruction, the dilapidated historical area has turned into a chic entertainment area which was operated by developer with supported by the government. This paper argues that the historical preservation in contemporary Nanjing serves the same goal of urban development, and in urban transformation process, how the historical buildings in built environment are selected and inserted in the newly built space.