Urban Development in the Margins of a World Heritage Site: In the Shadows of Angkor

This book explores the relationship between the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Angkor and the nearby town of Siem Reap, focusing on the margins where detrimental tourism-driven urban development may occur. It highlights the competition between controversial interests and real estate development, and how Siem Reap's marginal position allows for alternative visions of Khmer heritage to connect with images of urban modernity.

Format: Hardback
Length: 340 pages
Publication date: 25 May 2018
Publisher: Amsterdam University Press

This comprehensive volume delves into the intricate relationship between the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Angkor, nestled in the heart of Cambodia, and the neighboring town of Siem Reap. While previous studies on heritage sites have primarily concentrated on protected areas, this book takes a novel approach by shifting its focus to the margins, where detrimental tourism-driven urban development can occur. By defining a protected site, a non-heritage space is created, where spatial fragmentation, disruptive development processes, and unjust power plays can take place.

In the aftermath of the war in Cambodia, the country experienced a period of liberalization and collective aspirations for progress, providing a robust incentive for modernization. Within this dynamic landscape, controversial interests vie for dominance in the realm of urban development, with real estate development often prevailing over planned growth. At the same time, Siem Reap's marginal position grants it a certain degree of freedom in architectural and urban design. Operating in the shadow of institutional control, this architectural space emerges as a platform for expressing alternative visions of Khmer heritage and seamlessly integrating them with images of urban modernity.

The book explores the complex dynamics that shape the relationship between Angkor and Siem Reap, examining the ways in which heritage sites and urban development interact, influence, and transform each other. It sheds light on the challenges and opportunities that arise from the coexistence of these two entities, highlighting the potential for synergy and conflict. Through a multidisciplinary approach, the volume combines historical, cultural, and architectural analysis to provide a comprehensive understanding of the complex interplay between heritage and urbanization.

One of the key themes explored in the book is the impact of tourism on the preservation and management of heritage sites. The influx of visitors to Angkor has placed immense pressure on the site's infrastructure, resources, and cultural heritage. While tourism has brought economic benefits to the region, it has also led to the degradation of some areas and the exploitation of local communities. The book examines the strategies employed by both the UNESCO World Heritage Site and the local government to balance the demands of tourism with the preservation of Angkor's cultural heritage.

Another important aspect of the book is the role of urban development in shaping the identity and character of Siem Reap. As a growing tourist destination, Siem Reap has experienced rapid growth and transformation, with new hotels, restaurants, and shopping centers emerging. However, this development has also led to concerns about the loss of traditional architecture, the displacement of local communities, and the environmental impact of unchecked growth. The book explores the efforts made by the local government and community organizations to balance urbanization with sustainable development, preserving the unique cultural heritage and character of Siem Reap.

Furthermore, the book examines the power dynamics that govern the relationship between Angkor and Siem Reap. It highlights the ways in which the heritage site's status as a World Heritage Site can be used as a tool for political and economic gain, while also exposing the vulnerabilities and challenges faced by local communities and organizations. The book explores the role of international organizations, governments, and private sector actors in shaping the development of Angkor and Siem Reap, and the ways in which they can contribute to sustainable and equitable development.

In conclusion, this comprehensive volume offers a valuable contribution to the field of heritage studies and urban development. By exploring the relationship between the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Angkor and the nearby town of Siem Reap, it sheds light on the complex dynamics that shape heritage preservation and urbanization. The book provides insights into the challenges and opportunities that arise from the coexistence of heritage sites and urban development, and offers practical recommendations for sustainable and equitable development in this region.

Weight: 662g
Dimension: 161 x 240 x 26 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9789462983687
Edition number: 0