The Dynamics of Heritage Choice and Heritage Regimes in the “Making of Old Havana”

Old Havana's heritage reflects a deliberate political and historical process, shaped by selective representation that prioritizes certain cultural elements while suppressing others. This 'interpretational heritage choice' reveals how identity politics have influenced urban planning since 1994, creating a curated image of the city. The study applies Homi Bhabha’s concept to analyze the dynamics of heritage valuation, suppression, and omission in Havana's transformation. By examining tangible and intangible cultural representations, it uncovers the underlying regimes that govern heritage preservation, offering insights into how power structures shape urban identity.

Pichler, A. The Dynamics of Heritage Choice and Heritage Regimes in the “Making of Old Havana”. Heritage Regimes and the State, 39–59. https://doi.org/10.4000/books.gup.370