Cultural Heritage of Observatories

Astronomical observatories, though evolving in architecture and instruments, hold significant cultural heritage value. While their dynamic nature may preclude UNESCO World Heritage status, they can be recognized as 'Outstanding Astronomical Heritage' by the IAU for their scientific achievements. This study highlights the transformation of observatories from Baroque to modern designs, noting that their evolution reflects shifts from classical astronomy to astrophysics and beyond. Examples like La Plata and Hamburg observatories illustrate this transition, while contemporary structures such as the ESO Very Large Telescope or Jodrell Bank Observatory represent a departure from traditional dome shapes. The paper advocates for broadening UNESCO's Astronomy & World Heritage initiative to encompass broader scientific and technological heritage, including educational sites like the Gottorf Globe or Eise Eisinga Planetarium, which have played pivotal roles in science popularization.

Wolfschmidt, G. (2024). Cultural Heritage of Observatories. Cosmovisiones / Cosmovisões, 5(1), 147–157. https://doi.org/10.24215/26840162e012