Engaging Communities in Built Heritage Conservation: Insights and Challenges

Abstract

This research is focused on the critical role of the community in the conservation of built heritage and the lessons learned for successful execution of these projects. The active participation of community can enhance the conservation processes with their indigenous knowledge and expertise. Heritage is not only representing our past but also a reflection of the whole era that contributes to the identity of the place and people. The loss of heritage is alarming and in addition to lack of funds that further slows down the processes. In this scenario the community involvement can play vital role for sustainable conservation projects. The study adopted the qualitative, descriptive research design to understand the role of community for built heritage and further complemented by literature mapping and content analysis. The results emphasized the need for the community led heritage conservation. As these further covers more aspects like interpretation, participation and continuation of the heritage with cultural narratives. The study concluded with recommendations for paradigm shift in conservation of built heritage towards inclusive and participatory approaches to protect the living heritage cultural expressions.