Cultural heritage is a unique, nonrenewable resource that reflects the diversity of human history and cultures. It can be found in a wide range of forms, from art and architectural monuments to traditions, customs, folklore, language and music. While the concept of heritage has been defined in many different ways by various intergovernmental organizations and academic scholars, the UNESCO definition describes cultural heritage as “the tangible or intangible cultural properties (artworks, sites, buildings, monuments and landscapes) that are considered important for their historical, aesthetic, ethnological or archaeological value and form part of the cultural identity of a people.”
In addition to being beautiful and inspiring, cultural heritage is also an invaluable source of knowledge and insight. Historical artifacts, buildings and artworks can help us understand past events and social structures, giving us a sense of connection to bygone eras. They can also inspire future generations by showcasing the rich creativity of humans across different regions and time periods.
Whether we are aware of it or not, our culture is a vital part of our identities. It influences our values, beliefs and behaviors, and provides a sense of belonging to a community. This can be evident in how we live our lives – for example, the way we dress, where we shop, or even the types of foods we eat. In addition, our culture can have an impact on how we deal with conflict and crisis. For example, a community can be divided over the rebuilding of a damaged cultural site, or how priority is given to those who lost their homes in a natural disaster.
When people feel strongly about a certain aspect of their cultural heritage, they often want to protect it from harm and preserve it for future generations. They may buy heirlooms, keep old family photos, or create new traditions that honor their ancestors. However, there are times when it is necessary to let go of negative or false aspects of one’s culture – such as abusive traditions or beliefs that don’t align with personal truths and morality.
Throughout history, the concept of cultural heritage has evolved alongside a changing set of values. It is a socially constructed term that is influenced by cultural, political and economic forces, as well as personal experiences and privilege or marginalization. Therefore, the definition of cultural heritage will continue to evolve. In this article, we explore how the concept of heritage has shifted in three interconnected directions: from monuments to people; from objects to functions; and from preservation to revitalization. In doing so, we propose that a more functional and holistic approach is needed to safeguard our cultural heritage.