Conservation of Architectural Heritage (CAH) – 10th Edition

The 10th edition of the International Conference on "Conservation of Architectural Heritage" (CAH) aims to bring together academics and professionals who are passionate about heritage from diverse perspectives. This event provides a platform to share visions for protecting, preserving, and enhancing cultural heritage for future generations. Over the years, the conference has proven its success, and this milestone edition will stand out by exploring the intersection of Art and Science of Heritage.

Event Details

• Date: [Insert Date Here]
• Location: Polytechnic University of Turin, Turin, Italy
• Collaborating Institutions:
  • University of Portsmouth
  • University of Cagliari
  • Polytechnic University of Turin

About the Venue: Turin

The conference will take place at the Polytechnic University of Turin, located in the historic city of Turin. Known for its rich history and innovative spirit, Turin is a city where the past and present coexist harmoniously. Its urban fabric reflects layers of history, from Roman foundations and Savoy palaces to Liberty façades and pioneering industrial complexes.

Turin is a living laboratory of heritage, showcasing:

• Transformation of factories into cultural hubs
• Stewardship of UNESCO-listed royal residences
• Conservation of modernist architectural icons

These elements highlight heritage as a dynamic field of negotiation, where conservation, adaptive reuse, and cultural identity actively shape the city’s evolution.

The Importance of Architectural and Cultural Heritage

Architectural and cultural heritage serves as a testament to the values, achievements, and systems of past societies. It exists in both tangible and intangible forms, spanning landscape, urban, and architectural scales. Across these scales, heritage embodies material and immaterial values, offering invaluable insights into history and identity for current and future societies.

Challenges in Heritage Conservation

• Loss of Authenticity: Cultural sites are increasingly exposed to decay factors, leading to gradual loss of authenticity and identity.
• Historic vs. Modern Heritage: The concepts of archaeology, history, and identity differ between historic and modern heritage sites, presenting unique challenges in conservation.
• Limitations of Traditional Approaches: 19th- and 20th-century conservation methods often fall short in addressing contemporary needs. Community input and social values are essential for holistic conservation efforts.

Advocacy for Holistic Heritage Studies

It is crucial to advocate for equal consideration and in-depth studies of heritage, taking into account its time, scales, and values. Modern approaches must integrate community perspectives and contemporary social values to ensure appropriate conservation.

Heritage and Sustainability

Cultural heritage plays a pivotal role in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). As a fundamental discourse within sustainability, heritage research employs interdisciplinary techniques and methodologies, including:

• Arts and Humanities
• Architecture, Restoration, and Conservation
• Creative Practices
• Sciences, Technology, and Engineering

By embracing this interdisciplinary approach, the conference aims to contribute to the global recognition of culture as an essential component of sustainable development.

Join us at the 10th International Conference on Conservation of Architectural Heritage to explore innovative ideas, share knowledge, and shape the future of heritage conservation.