The “other side” of architectural reconstruction

Architectural reconstructions following armed conflicts, exemplified by the Old Bridge in Mostar, reveal that social and political factors often overshadow professional considerations in monumental preservation. This study challenges the notion of 'identical' restoration, questioning whether an authentic experience can be recreated through simulations of absent original monuments. It evaluates the reconstruction process, highlighting ethical, moral, and historical complexities, particularly concerning the original form and spaces. The research underscores the impact of delayed reconstructions due to political and economic instability, raising critical questions about the authenticity and layering of reconstructed monuments in post-conflict societies.

Toshikj, M., & Zsembery, Á. (2019). The “other side” of architectural reconstruction. Építés - Építészettudomány, 47(3-4), 361–382. https://doi.org/10.1556/096.2019.004