Cultural Heritage in Transition: A Multi-Level Perspective on World Heritage in Germany and the United Kingdom, 1970-2020

This book explores the multilevel perspective to analyze how local, national, and international actors and institutions in the heritage field interact, focusing on six UNESCO World Heritage sites in Germany and the United Kingdom. It reveals differences between the decentralized German and centralized British approach to heritage preservation, affecting governance and relations with international organizations.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 291 pages
Publication date: 28 February 2023
Publisher: Springer Nature Switzerland AG

This comprehensive book delves into the intricate dynamics of how local, national, and international actors and institutions engage within the realm of heritage. Through a comparative analysis, it sheds light on the diverse controversies surrounding six UNESCO World Heritage sites in Germany and the United Kingdom. These six cases encompass a wide range of heritage elements, including historic monuments like the cathedral of Aachen and the castle and cathedral of Durham, as well as industrial heritage sites like the Zollverein Coal Mine in Essen and the former tin and copper mines in Cornwall. By examining the interplay between long-term landscape developments and local actors, as well as nationally organized regimes, the book uncovers significant distinctions between the decentralized German and centralized British approaches to heritage preservation. These differences not only shape the governance of heritage preservation in these two countries but also have far-reaching implications for their relationships with international organizations like UNESCO.

The book explores the complex interplay between local communities, national governments, and international organizations in the preservation and management of heritage sites. It examines the challenges and opportunities that arise from the diverse perspectives and interests of these stakeholders, and highlights the importance of effective collaboration and communication in achieving sustainable heritage management.

One of the key themes of the book is the role of local communities in the preservation and management of heritage. It emphasizes the significance of involving local people in decision-making processes and providing them with the resources and support they need to maintain and protect their cultural heritage. The book also explores the challenges that local communities face in preserving their heritage, such as economic development, urbanization, and climate change.

Another theme of the book is the role of national governments in the preservation and management of heritage. It examines the policies and regulations that govern heritage preservation and the mechanisms that are in place to ensure that heritage sites are protected and conserved. The book also explores the challenges that national governments face in managing heritage, such as funding, political will, and public engagement.

The book also examines the role of international organizations like UNESCO in the preservation and management of heritage. It highlights the importance of international cooperation and collaboration in achieving sustainable heritage management and the challenges that international organizations face in their efforts to promote heritage conservation.

Overall, this book provides a comprehensive and insightful examination of the complex dynamics of heritage preservation and management. It offers valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities that arise from the diverse perspectives and interests of local, national, and international stakeholders, and highlights the importance of effective collaboration and communication in achieving sustainable heritage management.

Weight: 468g
Dimension: 235 x 155 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783030937744
Edition number: 1st ed. 2022