Management of Cultural Heritage in the Central Europe Area
The area of central Europe, due to its history and the mix of different cultures and nations, is characterised by rich and diverse cultural heritage. Unfortunately, this valuable asset is underestimated as a key driver of the development for regional/local economies. A sophisticated and sustainable use of cultural heritage can be indeed especially vital for boosting the development of small- and medium-sized cities. The re-use and exploitation of renovated and revitalised built heritage represents an essential part in this context and should meet the 21st century specific needs as well as be adapted to new economic functions.

The challenges for managing cultural heritage in central Europe are to look for models that ensure better coordinated, integrated and systemic approaches of governance. Ways need also to be identified on how to involve private actors/additional financial sources, whereas the economic interest would match with the protection level of the particular site. The HERMAN project connects ten cities, regions and knowledge institutions that aim to improve the management and valorisation of cultural heritage to better exploit its economic potential. Within their cooperation project they will look for and implement good practices of other European cities that have already successfully implemented efficient solutions in cultural management.
