Preservation of Archaeological Sites: A Holistic Perspective
Among all the types of cultural heritage under threat, archaeological sites—and their wealth of information and artifacts—are in greatest jeopardy. Since time immemorial, archaeological sites have been exploited for knowledge and for treasure, looted for objects, destroyed out of idle curiosity, and plundered for material for new construction. Today, uncontrolled tourism poses its own threat. Lost sites, like extinct species, are lost forever. To prevent their loss, we need a holistic approach to site conservation.
The Culture of Civic Participation: A Conversation with Abilio Dias Fernandes
The mayor of Evora, Portugal, and vice-president of the Organization of World Heritage Cities describes how a long-term perspective, combined with a commitment to public participation, helped pave the way for the economic development, social reconstruction, and cultural revitalization of his city.
The Archaeological Heritage in the Mediterranean Region
The Mediterranean region contains vestiges of ancient civilizations that shaped our own societies. Unfortunately, the lack of long-term conservation plans in the region is leading to the irreversible degradation of many archaeological sites. In May 1995, the GCI and the Getty Museum hosted a conference of government officials and heritage specialists to discuss protection of Mediterranean sites. This adaptation of the introduction to the conference proceedings, now being published, explores the role that site management can play in the preservation of archaeological heritage.
Preserving Collections in Tropical Countries
In industrialized countries, most large museums provide stable environments for their collections by using elaborate climate-control systems. However, many museums in tropical countries lack the money to install, run, and maintain such sophisticated systems. How can safe environments be provided to ensure the long-term preservation of these museum collections? The answer lies in the use of passive environmental controls, relatively inexpensive and simple methods for creating reasonably stable museum environments by reducing extreme conditions.
Updates on Getty Conservation Institute projects, events, courses, publications, and staff.
The GCI Newsletter Staff Box