Restauri storici tra riconoscimenti e negazioni nell’interpretazione del Patrimonio Mondiale. Spunti e confronti a partire dal Percorso arabo-normanno di Palermo

Historical restorations significantly impact the recognition of monuments' values, influencing their inclusion or exclusion from UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The study examines the 'Arab-Norman itinerary of Palermo,' where some monuments were excluded due to restorations conducted between the 19th and 20th centuries, while others, like the Churches of Santa Maria dell’Ammiraglio (Martorana) and San Cataldo, were included despite similar interventions. This discrepancy raises critical questions about the interpretation of authenticity in heritage preservation. The research compares these cases with other globally recognized sites, such as the Alhambra palace in Granada and the fortified city of Carcassonne, which also underwent substantial stylistic restorations yet remain part of UNESCO's heritage. By analyzing these examples, the study challenges conventional notions of authenticity and examines why some restorations are accepted while others are deemed compromising.

Genovese, C. (2023). Restauri storici tra riconoscimenti e negazioni nell’interpretazione del Patrimonio Mondiale. Spunti e confronti a partire dal Percorso arabo-normanno di Palermo. Restauro Archeologico, 30(1). https://doi.org/10.36253/rar-14274