DEVELOPING A METHODOLOGY FOR MANAGING THE CONSERVATION OF HISTORICAL AND CULTURAL RESOURCES IN PALESTINE

Abstract

Heritage conservation in Palestine, through still in its early stage of development, is a growing area of interest to Palestinians. Success of the conservation of cultural resources is challenged by the absence of a defined mechanism for conservation and the lack of an infrastructure that supports conservation practice.

The objective of this research is to develop a comprehensive-regional approach for the identification, evaluation, and management of historical and cultural resources in Palestine; taking into consideration local culture, values, dynamics, and context. This comprehensive approach recognizes and incorporates the significance of a broader range of historical and cultural resources with diverse meanings and significance to different individuals and the broader range of the population, and which are important for Palestinian national, local, and place identity and sovereignty.

Depending on four sources of information (field reconnaissance-level survey, public meetings and workshop, conservation questionnaire, and case studies), the researcher divides the methodology for conservation in Palestine into three interrelated and overlapping parts; part one deals with establishing a strong knowledge base, part two involves creating a pro-conservation infrastructure and environment, and part three implements different levels of interventions and management.