The third part of the training: "Valorization of archaeological heritage"
The third part of the course Valorization of archaeological heritage was aimed at discussing how images of the past are created and valorized by using elements of archaeological heritage. These images are further used in creating and maintaining local and regional identities. Accordingly, archaeological heritage was presented as being a real fact and invention at the same time. The interest in the study of landscape has increased over the last few decades. In order to serve the value of sustainable development, a strategic approach is called for in the field of planning. For that, it is essential to disseminate knowledge on the history of landscape and landscape elements.
In this respect, a biography of landscape as an invented image of the past and a useful tool of analysis, created and carefully maintained, was presented and discussed at length. The metaphor refers to the life history of landscape and as such is a personification. It became recently a tool for sustainable development. The biography approach can be very appealing in its narrative quality, but its selective character can have negative aspects. A good alternative approach could be the Historic Landscape Characterization as developed recently by English Heritage. It is seen as an important tool for achieving the goals of the European Landscape convention, as it has a more holistic and integrated approach to management and understanding. This part of the course also discussed the concept of authenticity and its significance for archaeological heritage.