Sustainable Heritage is the theme for the 2022 European Heritage Days: a focus on the active role of communities building a more sustainable and resilient future for European heritage, in the context of environmental changes and related risks. The European Heritage Days, a joint initiative of the Council of Europe and the European Commission since 1999, are among the most widely celebrated interactive cultural events in Europe.
The pan-European nature of the programme brings those living in Europe together and draws on a European dimension of cultural heritage as enshrined in the European Cultural Convention. This year up to 50,000 events are aimed at recognising the value of a common European heritage and the need to preserve it for present and future generations.
A wide range of cultural activities (exhibitions, workshops, performances, guided tours) promoting sustainable heritage while respecting wildlife and biodiversity, will take place all over Europe in the coming weeks.
“Sustainable development is one of the priorities of the Council of Europe. Our Organisation has contributed to shaping a common legal environment in Europe for biodiversity, landscape management and spatial planning. Therefore, I welcome the European Heritage Days 2022 theme of sustainable heritage as a relevant opportunity to raise awareness of the fight against environmental degradation and climate change, developing a culture of sustainability to protect cultural diversity.”, said Council of Europe Secretary General Marija Pejčinović Burić.
Given the importance that historic buildings have in relation to local identity, this year’s events will focus on ways to safeguard heritage by preserving and restoring historic buildings using traditional techniques, skills and materials as part of socially and environmentally sustainable urban development.
“This year, we celebrate heritage through the lens of sustainability, which couldn’t be more relevant after the clear and dramatic signs of climate change our continent has endured this summer. The European Heritage Days are therefore a great opportunity to raise awareness on the environmental risks our shared heritage is facing and to take sustainable and responsible action to preserve it. Not only for ourselves and to preserve our cultural identities, but also to make sure we leave a legacy for the future generations” said Mariya Gabriel, European Commissioner for Education, Culture, Youth and Sport.
European Heritage Days 2022 shine a spotlight on “Sustainable Heritage”