Managing sacred places as heritage in West Africa

Sacred places in West Africa, including UNESCO World Heritage Sites such as the Osun-Osogbo Sacred Grove, represent unique cultural heritage combining spiritual and physical significance. These sites, often rich in both tangible and intangible values, require specialized conservation strategies to preserve their cultural and historical integrity. The study highlights that while some sacred landscapes have formal management plans due to their World Heritage status, others lack structured protection despite their importance. The research emphasizes the need for balanced approaches that respect spiritual traditions while implementing effective conservation measures.

Osuagwu, V. N. (2017). Managing sacred places as heritage in West Africa. Managing Heritage in Africa, 110–121. https://doi.org/10.4324/9781315472973-8