Heritage reserves to preserve patrimony
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Archaeologically rich sites should be turned into reserves to ensure that heritage is better safeguarded and managed, according to the revised draft National Strategy for Cultural Heritage.
The draft, launched for public consultation yesterday, proposes the setting up of heritage reserves that could include buildings, monuments and archaeological sites.
The Superintendent of Cultural Heritage Anthony Pace, said the draft stressed the importance of participation by the public and the role of local councils in safeguarding cultural heritage.
Although local councils already organise many cultural activities, the draft strategy seeks to get them even more involved.
According to the State of the Heritage Report for 2011, also launched yesterday, out of the 722 cultural activities held last year, 451 were organised by local councils. Culture Minister Mario de Marco spoke about the need to safeguard cultural heritage for future generations. He recalled that the government had launched the first National Strategy for Cultural Heritage in 2006, updating it every five years.
“We must remember that cultural heritage is a non-renewable resource. Any mistake we make can not be reversed,” Dr de Marco said.
Dr Pace said the document was put together following consultation with 93 entities, including local councils and NGOs.
A record €7.4 million was spent last year to run such entities as Heritage Malta, the Superintendence of Cultural Heritage and the National Philharmonic Orchestra – up by almost €400,000 over the previous year. Capital expenditure reached €3.8 million, a drop of €44,000 from 2010.
The documents can be accessed at www.culturalheritage.gov.mt.