When queried about the meaning of heritage, individuals often find themselves contemplating the most suitable response. Although a formal definition exists, comprehending how people perceive heritage and its significance is equally crucial. In essence, how do non-experts or laypersons interpret the concept of heritage?
If you were to search for the meaning of heritage, you will find the following definitions.
The Oxford English Dictionary defines ‘heritage as follows” the history, traditions, and qualities that a country or society has had for many years and that are considered an important part of its character”.
Cambridge defines heritage as “relating to buildings, places, works of art, etc. that are considered to have historical importance for a particular area or for all people”.
The meaning of heritage according to Collins include following among others, 1. something inherited at birth, such as personal characteristics, status, and possessions 2. anything that has been transmitted from the past or handed down by tradition 3.the evidence of the past, such as historical sites, buildings, and the unspoilt natural environment, considered collectively as the inheritance of present-day society
Therefore, on a broader level, heritage means anything that was valued in the past and continues to be valued today by people. Therefore, heritage includes inheritances of culture, land & buildings, customs, and knowledge.
Heritage serves as a defining characteristic for both individuals and collectives. A universal mechanism where heritage fosters connections with our predecessors while imparting to subsequent generations those values we deem significant and worthy of preservation for posterity.
Tunbridge and Ashworth in Dissonant Heritage: The Management of the Past as a Resource in Conflict, believe heritage is a contemporary product shaped from history’ . This connects heritage with the past. However, this does not mean heritage is disconnected with the present. Heritage, as a current phenomenon, has always been present with us.
In short, heritage is a medium through which we connect with our history and culture.
we all do. Our individual choices, values, and preferences coalesce into tangible thoughts and actions. Ultimately, we humans decide what is important, what we need to preserve or discard. Our actions decide what we choose to leave behind us as a heritage legacy. Our actions shape the legacy we bequeath to posterity. The Taliban’s destruction of the ancient Buddhist statue in Bamyan, Afghanistan, in 2001 stands as a stark example of the enduring impact such acts have on our heritage. Similarly, the obliteration of ancient architectural marvels in Palmyra, Syria, by ISIS has grave consequences for future generations. WWII saw widespread destruction of heritage structures and looting of art of immense value across Europe. Many cities like Warsaw in Poland, Rotterdam in the Netherlands, Dresden in Germany were completely destroyed. The old style buildings we see in many of these cities were rebuilt.
Beyond the realm of structure, heritage encompasses a broader spectrum. It embodies buildings, objects, specific geographical locales, culture, traditions, religious practices, and more. I contend that heritage encapsulates everything transmitted from one generation to the next, forming an integral part of contemporary society, and deserving of protection and preservation for the benefit of future generations.
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