Conflicts of the heritage: mapping values of immovable cultural heritage in Kaunas downtown area

A comprehensive mapping of heritage values in Kaunas' Naujamiestis area reveals significant discrepancies between official designations and the expectations of the local heritage community. While 45 buildings are marked with European Heritage Labels (EHL) and aspirations exist for UNESCO World Heritage status, these labels often do not align with the daily experiences or perceived significance of the heritage community. The study emphasizes that value definition in such complex urban landscapes must be research-driven, aiming to integrate official criteria with grassroots perspectives. This approach is particularly crucial for 20th-century heritage, where buildings are deeply embedded in contemporary life. The findings stem from a comparative analysis of institutional and community-based valuation instruments, underscoring the need for inclusive, evidence-based frameworks in heritage conservation.

Petrulis, V. (2016). Conflicts of the heritage: mapping values of immovable cultural heritage in Kaunas downtown area. Art History & Criticism, 12, 20–30. https://doi.org/10.7220/1822-4547.12.3