Conservation Principles:-

Authenticity
The traditional knowledge systems and the cultural landscape in which it exists,
particularly if these are ‘living’, should define the authenticity of the heritage value to be
conserved. In the absence of such contexts, the official and legal guidelines, particularly as
defined by the “Nara Document on Authenticity, 1994”, should determine the nature of
the authenticity of the architectural heritage and site.

Traditional knowledge systems and cultural landscapes vary from one regional/cultural
context to another or within the same region/culture. Thus, the values of ‘living’
architectural heritage can differ from one context to another, reflecting the cultural
diversity of the country. In each case, however, conservation should faithfully reflect the
significant values, which define the heritage.
Conjecture
Local master builders build, rebuild, restore, renew and make additions/alterations to
historic buildings in response to contemporary exigencies or evolving local needs of the
community; they must be encouraged to follow their traditions even when there is no
available evidence in the form of documentation, oral histories or physical remains of
previous structures.
Conjectural restoration or rebuilding must nevertheless respect the overall spatial and
volumetric composition of historic settings. The parameters of the historical setting
should be defined through comprehensive urban design studies. These parameters should
also guide new urban development in the vicinity of heritage buildings and sites.
The ASI / SDA rule prohibiting development within a 100-metre radius of a protected
building restricts the practice of restoration or rebuilding of sites, conjectural or
otherwise, and thereby may result in harming the welfare of society. This rule should not
be applied to conserve unprotected architectural heritages and sites.

Integrity

The integrity of the heritage is to be defined and interpreted not only in terms of the
physical fabric of the building, but also with respect to the collective knowledge systems
and cultural landscape it represents. This knowledge system, where it exists, must mediate
the process of conservation/ restoration/ rebuilding of the unprotected architectural
heritage in order to reinforce an appreciation of the cultural landscape. This dynamic
concept understands the integrity of the individual building as one which evolves in
response to contemporary needs of local society.
The concept of an evolving integrity accepts the introduction of new architectonic
elements, materials and technologies when local traditions are insufficient or unavailable.
The introduction of new elements may reflect contemporary aesthetic ideals as modern
additions to old buildings.
Rights of the indigenous community
Each community has its own distinctive culture constituted by its traditions, beliefs, rituals
and practices - all intrinsic to defining the significance of the unprotected architectural
heritage and site. The conservation strategy must respect the fact that local cultures are
not static and, therefore, encourage active community involvement in the process of
decision-making. This will ensure that the symbiotic relation between the indigenous
community and its own heritage is strengthened through conservation.

Respect for the contributions of all periods

The contributions of earlier periods which produced the historic fabric and consequent
interventions, including contemporary interventions, based on either traditional systems
of building knowledge or modern practices, must be respected as constituting the
integrity of the heritage sought to be conserved. The objective of conserving the
unprotected architectural heritage and site is not so much to reveal the authentic quality
of the past or preserve its original integrity, but rather to mediate its evolving cultural
significance to achieve beneficial results.
The holistic coherence of the heritage in terms of its urban design, architectural
composition and the meaning it holds for the local community should determine any
intervention in the process of conservation.
Minimal intervention
Conservation may include additions and alterations of the physical fabric, in part or
whole, in order to reinstate the meaning and coherence of the unprotected architectural
heritage and site. In the first instance, however, conservation should attempt minimal
intervention
Minimal loss of fabric
The nature and degree of intervention for repairing, restoring, rebuilding, reuse or
introducing new use, should be determined on the basis of the intervention’s
contribution to the continuity of cultural practices, including traditional building skills and
knowledge, and the extent to which the changes envisaged meet the needs of the
community.
Reversibility
The principle of reversibility of interventions needs not dictate conservation strategy. In
order to use the unprotected heritage for the socio-economic regeneration of the local
communities, the historic building and site can be suitably adapted and modified for an
appropriate reuse. For this it is only essential that the process of intervention contributes
to conserving the traditional context as far as possible in the modified form. This decision
must invariably be taken in consultation with INTACH’s Advisory Committees as
described in Article 7.2.5.
Legibility
The legibility of any intervention must be viewed in its own context. If traditional
craftspeople are employed then it must be accepted that their pride derives from the fact
that the new work is in complete harmony with the old and is not distinguishable from
it. Thus, historic ways of building must be valued more than the imperative to put a
contemporary stamp on any intervention in a historic building.
Where modern material or technology is used, it could be used to replicate the old or be
distinguished from it, depending on the artistic intent governing the strategy of
conservation

Demolish/ Rebuild
The concept of jeernodharanam, or regeneration of what decays, must guide the nature
of conservation. This belief is fundamental to conserving traditional ways of building and
maintaining the continuity of local knowledge systems.
If, however, local conditions are such that all strategies to conserve the unprotected
architectural heritage and site are found to be inadequate, then the option of replacing it
should be examined. This process is also rooted in tradition because it recognises ‘cyclical’
perceptions of time, whereby buildings live, die and are rebuilt. This option must be
discussed, debated and decided in consultation with all concerned stakeholders, including
INTACH’s Advisory Committee as described in Article 7.2.5.
If a historic structure has outlived its significance and its meanings to local people are lost,
it may be preserved as a ruin or, if circumstances do not permit that, left undisturbed to
meet its natural end.
If removal in whole or part from the original site or context is the only means of
ensuring the security and preservation of a building, then a comprehensive
documentation of all valuable and significant components of the cultural resource must
be undertaken before it is dismantled.
Relationship between the conservation archite ct and the
community
In dealing with the conservation of unprotected architectural heritage and sites, it may
become necessary to temper the role of the conservation architect as an expert
professional by taking into account the desires and aspirations of the local community
and the traditional practices of raj mistris. This does not assume, a priori, that the
interests of conservation architects and those of the community and traditional master
builders are incompatible, but rather that there must be room in the process of
conservation for dialogue and negotiated decision making.
In order to achieve a more satisfying result for the community it may be necessary to
override the professional imperative to adhere to the principles governing the
conservation of legally protected monuments. This is acceptable when dealing with
unprotected architectural heritage and sites provided, as stated in Article 2.7, that
conservation strategies seek economically to achieve maximum protection of the
significant values of the architectural heritage and site.
Monument Conservation
Monument conservation: restoration and conservation of monuments and historic
building structures, structural maintenance and building maintenance
The conservation of monuments and the restoration of historic building structures is a
special task and challenge for planners and contractors. A monument is a historical
document characterized by its rarity, uniqueness and originality.

City Development And Its Effect On Ancient Monuments:

• Haphazard growth of cities.

• Indiscriminative road widening schemes.
• Clearance schemes.
• Exposure of old quarters to speculative forces.
Reasons For The Conservtation Of Ancient Monuments:-
1) Because of their architectural value.
2) Because it’s the way the cultural heritage of one generation is passed on to its next one.
3) They will be an identity to a city - to people - with whom one can associate - be proud
of.
The most important objectives in modern monument conservation are:

• The conservation and restoration of monuments must have recourse to all the sciences and techniques which can contribute
to the study and safeguarding of the architectural heritage
• The intention in conserving and restoring monuments is to safeguard monuments no less as works of art than as historical
evidence
• Its aim is to preserve and reveal the aesthetic and historic value of the monument
• Where traditional techniques prove inadequate, the consolidation of a monument can be achieved by the use of any
modern technique for conservation and construction, the efficacy of which has been shown by scientific data and proved by
experience
• In all works of preservation, restoration or excavation, there should always be precise documentation
Most important types of restoration in monument conservation, building maintenance and structural maintenance
• Protection from water / moisture impact
• Sealing of adjacent foundation soil against water ingress
• Post-construction damp proof courses
• Post-construction surface sealants on the outside and within the structure
• Protection of façade surfaces from moisture
• Protection of the structure before overcoating
• Static stabilization of the structure
• Filling of cracks and cavities
• Solidification of masonry
• Jointing repair
• Stabilization of foundation soil
The elements of the Ancient Monument (Site and Remains) Act 1956.
Historical background on legislation on conservation:

1) Beginning of archaeological studies made by William Jones - founder of Asiatic society-

1784, concerned with antiquities-arts, science, and literature.
2) Archaeological Survey of India established in 1861. By 1902 ASI has assumed a dynamic
role - to survey, explore and excavate.
3) The first act by Central Govt. – Ancient monument Preservation Act 1904

Functions of Ancient Monument Preservation Act 1904

• Prevent excavation by unauthorized persons of sites of

historic interest and value.
• Preservation of ancient monuments.
• Preservation of objects of archaeological, historical and
artistic interest.
The Central Govt framed the Ancient Monuments act and Archaeological Sites and
Remains Rules, 1959 which prescribed:
a) Procedural details related to public access to the
monuments.
b) Control over excavation
c) Control over developments in the vicinity of
monuments
The conservation of a cultural heritage property is a process of managing change in ways that will sustain the significance of a plac
its setting while recognizing the opportunities to reinforce its values for present and future generations. The concept of conservati
cultural heritage has evolved over the last centuries and today the philosophy of conserving elements of cultural heritage emphas
the significance people associate to a specific heritage property. The definition of significance embraces the entire cultural and na
heritage values people associate with a place or which stimulates them to respond to it. In this respect, it becomes apparent that
values are the ones that have to be conserved in order to sustain the significance of a place.

Individuals and communities maintain a `` spirit of a place`´ by constantly adhering to the values they attach to it. A monument is
mere material entity when the ``spirit of a place`` is not maintained. The perception of people towards a heritage property evolve
time and people consolidate the idea of `´the spirit of a place`` as they constantly maintain their attachment to it. The way people
attach values to a heritage property tend to grow in vigor and complexity over time with respect to evolving principles and
technological facets in time. A good conservation practice in cultural heritage should therefore play a crucial role in distinguishing,
communicating and sustaining the established values of places and helping people to improve and express the values they attach
heritage places.

Cultural heritage properties are maintained by people and the works of successive generations often contribute to their significan
What is valued from the elements of cultural properties for the future in a conservation process is indeed important to sustaining
cultural values in a historic environment, be it an archaeological site, historic building or religious shrine. The decisions made abou
change in such historic environments are central to a conservation pursuit. A thorough understanding of who values a place and w
they act so is therefore fundamental. This further implies a clear statement of its significance in as much as ensuring the ability to
understand the impact of change on the particular significance people give to a specific cultural heritage property. The above
statements highlight the importance of involving society in conservation process. The basis for community involvement in heritage
conservation is indicated by the above fundamental premises and the following instances best illustrate how a sound conservation
practice necessitates public involvement.
The link between spirit and matter, nature and culture as well as the intangible dimension of immovable heritage, for instance is we
represented in the religious heritage of Eritrea. Monasteries and monastic traditions, to such an extent, have long kept a number of
cultural traditions peculiar to this part of the world. Eritrea is rich in intangible forms of heritage whose spiritual values are intertwin
with cultural spaces. The conservation of liturgical objects, parchments, mummified remains in many old-monasteries in Eritrea atte
to the maintenance of the integrity of monastic treasures. The entire fabric of these traditions has been shaped through the form a
substance of the cultural bounties kept in their libraries. The concern of conserving these traditions in the future apparently resides
how to maintain this integrity amid modernity and ´´professional´´ practice. It should be outlined that the conservation of these
religious bounties is fully possible by integrating the value systems of the monastic community. Local knowledge systems that have
these traditions intact for over millennia are the basis for integrating an agreeable solution to conservation concerns. Where spiritu
values enhance the integrity of these religious bounties, the recommendations from museum professionals, conservators and archi
need to reveal and explore the meaning beyond the physical state of an object. Therefore, the viewpoints of monastic community a
well as the ethical considerations amicable to the spiritual significance of the object become fundamental. This ensures the sustaini
of traditions peculiar to the Eritrean society.

On similar accounts, religious shrines become a reference point to understand why involvement of a local community in conservatio
process to be significant. Symbolic and spiritual values are attached to these religious shrines and much of these heritages emphasi
credence of doctrine over ordinary life. Dealing with these heritage places therefore is not only conserving the materiality in them b
also is the maintenance of the social components in them. No one else can understand these dimensions than the local communitie
who keep connections to such heritage through pilgrimage and worship. The active participation of the local communities in the
conservation process is thus important in as much as emphasizing the ´´spirit of the place´´ is paramount.

Categories such as vernacular architecture also bear a unique testimony to the intangible heritage of Eritrea. Where material choice
contribute to the conservation of elements of vernacular architecture, the involvement of local masons and traditional craftsmen in
process becomes an ideal solution. This area of heritage provides craftsmen whose traditional knowledge system constitutes the
he maintenance of the ´´spirit of a place´´ through understanding the values people attach to it also concerns the cultural
landscapes distributed across Eritrea. The distribution of archaeological sites in remote areas of Eritrea requires a good
understanding of the significance local people give to these heritage properties. This approach will facilitate the
integration of the social components into a sound conservation practice that allows active public participation.

In summary, community involvement in the conservation of cultural heritage objects is vital as the process helps sustain
the significance of these properties. Meaning is bestowed on heritage objects through the symbolic components they
constitute and people often find attachment to the heritage property via these elements. Finding a good balance is
therefore attained in conservation of the cultural heritage as change on the objects is maintained and managed by
understanding the values people attach to the heritage bounties.
The Role of Public-Private Partnerships in Conserving Heritage Buildings, Sites,and Historic Urban Areas
Public-private partnerships, abbreviated as PPPs in this review, are contractual
arrangements in which the private sector assists in delivering a public facility or
service by providing funding or operating leadership. There are three sectors
involved in PPPs. They are, first, the public sector, which may include one or all
levels of government, and, second, the private sector, which includes business and
investor organizations. Of increasing importance and particular relevance to PPPs
used for heritage conservation is the third sector. In this document, the third sector
is described as nongovernment, social, and community-based institutions, and it
may also include people living near a heritage site

The heritage building is identified as a community asset regardless of who

actually holds title to the property.
• There is a core group that initiates action, usually from the government or
NGO sector or a group of concerned individuals from the community.
• There is an imaginative catalyst to move the redevelopment idea forward.
This may come from the business community, the local government, an
NGO, or elsewhere.
• There is broad-based support for the project within the local community
that spans sector and political interests horizontally.
•There is always public sector participation, including from levels of government that are not directly
involved as the formal public partner.
• There are multiple sources of financing from traditional private sector, nontraditional, and/or public
institutions.
• There is a commitment by all parties to be as flexible as possible in use,
financing, timing, and particulars of the transaction until a mutually acceptable and feasible
alternative scenario is developed. This requires compromise and patience from all partners. Even the
most successful PPPs for conservation tend to draw significant public skepticism during the
process
The public sector acts as catalyst—there is strong vision by government for
revitalization, an investment of public resources, and facilitation of dialogue
with local communities.
• There is sustained political will.
• There is sustained government financial support, with up-front estimation
of investment needs, quantification of potential returns, and secured financial investment.
• There is good communication between the three sectors and local
communities.
• Efforts are focused within a defined geographic area.
• Passive measures (such as laws and regulations) must be backed by action
plans and concrete investments.
• Social rehabilitation needs are addressed.
• Housing needs are addressed through financial mechanisms.
• The private sector is incentivized.
• Banner projects are initiated that generate support, show short-term results
and commitment, and trigger investment.
• Multilateral agencies are involved that can provide technical support and
continuity outside local political cycles
The Public Sector
In urban conservation efforts, public sector engagement and support are critical and are often catalysts for private sector
involvement. Depending on the country’s experience with PPPs, a public partner can be the local, state, or national
government, or a combination of these. The public partner in a PPP for conservation of a single building is likely to be the
owner of the building or the entity legally responsibility for overseeing its care.
As with infrastructure PPPs, the government can provide financial and regulatory incentives to attract private partners via
grants and tax credits or deductions, or make up-front financial contributions toward conservation. In urban area
conservation, as previously mentioned, the public sector may encourage private sector investment by committing to
infrastructure and community upgrading of the surrounding neighborhood. Rypkema notes that public sector contributions
can also include the following support:
• long-term protection of the heritage asset through granting of historic status
or creation of an economic improvement area
• in countries where government owns many of the heritage buildings, provision of the building itself
• public occupancy of all or part of the building after rehabilitation
The Private Sector

Private sector contributions to conservation PPPs are much the same as in other infrastructure partnerships—financial
capital or the ability to raise and negotiate funds, the provision of skills, and the capacity to undertake long-term
obligations—with a few slight adjustments. The private partner is expected to have deep knowledge of real estate
development and construction and to understand the legislative tools and restrictions involved in working with historic
buildings. Additionally, in many PPPs for conservation, the private partner is responsible for long-term management of
the asset, unless a building is rehabilitated solely for continuous public use or for immediate private ownership.
With the shift toward triple bottom line reporting and the expectation that the private sector should exhibit social
responsibility, conservation PPPs can benefit socially entrepreneurial, private sector developers. Some parts of the private
sector are now willing to accept profits that accrue over the long term, making conservation projects more viable. Similarly,
government assurances of long-term involvement can boost private sector confidence. Given that conservation generally
aspires to the long view, this is an area where a PPP can provide substantial benefits
Multinational companies have played a role in conservation. They might do this to demonstrate corporate responsibility or
they might engage in conservation to protect or advance their own interests.46 This contribution often comes in the form
of straightforward philanthropy, in which case the project is not a PPP. Such support typically includes direct grants to
organizations or projects, such as American Express’s funding of the World Monuments Watch program of the World
Monuments Fund. Examples of PPPs involving multinational corporations for heritage sites are rare, and there is none
specifically documented for cultural sites that include urban conservation.
REFERENCES:-
• https://www.getty.edu/conservation/publications_resources/pdf_publications
• https://www.researchgate.net/publication/281684109_Community_Participation_for_
Heritage_Conservation

• http://www.shabait.com/about-eritrea/history-a-culture/25543-community-involveme
nt-in-cultural-heritage-conservation
• https://www.scribd.com/document/439871636/Conservation-of-Ancient-Monuments
• https://www.academia.edu/26317419/The_Language_of_Architecture-
_26_Principles_Every_Architect_Should_Know