Spanish Colonialism and the Impact of Old Havana's Heritage status
M. Cheaz (TU Delft - Architecture and the Built Environment)
Paolo de Martino – Mentor (TU Delft - History, Form & Aesthetics)
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Abstract
Old Havana is undergoing a restoration project which focusses on preserving the historic character of the district. In order to fund this process, the parties managing the restoration process focus on transforming the district by commodifying tourist facilities and services. The restoration attempts of managing parties have earned the district its World Heritage status. However, the focus of maintaining its historic value stands in the way of the well-being of the residents of Old Havana. Next to this, the development of Old Havana knows a history of exploitation and has impacted a larger portion of the population in negative ways. The negative implications that have come from the formation of Old Havana and the cost of maintaining the historical value of the district at the expense of local residents should therefore be considered when assigning World Heritage status to a site, place or building.