De – form to Re – form. Architectural Preservation as Safekeeping of the Performative Structure of Space

Classical Greek architecture, particularly the Temple of Apollo Epicurius at Bassae, is revealed as a 'performative' structure that articulates cultural narratives through bodily experience, resonating with dramatic scenes. Traditional preservation methods like anastylosis often reduce monuments to static objects, obscuring their dynamic, scenographic character. The study identifies traces of this performative conception in 18th- and 19th-century architectural discourse, notably in English garden design principles and the notion of picturesque. It proposes an experimental approach that prioritizes preserving articulated scenes experienced by visitors over mere material form restoration, aiming to reintegrate monuments into contemporary culture as vibrant storytelling entities rather than passive tourist attractions.

Kaleris, A., & Castro, G. (2025). De – form to Re – form. Architectural Preservation as Safekeeping of the Performative Structure of Space. Proceedings of the Performing Space 2023 Conference, 94–111. https://doi.org/10.12681/ps2023.7966