inventory > first step

First Step: Make a List

The first step in moving toward greater awareness of the valued heritage of cultural landscapes is to create an inventory. Creating an inventory has many possible starting points. A logical place to start is to develop a list of the names and locations of cultural landscapes of value as a basis for the inventory.  Some inventory lists begin with parks or gardens and extend to town plans, campuses, agricultural areas, and other landscape types in a phased inventory effort over several years.   Over time, this list can grow to include more landscape types and greater complexity.

A discussion among IFLA colleagues in one country can start a list of the important cultural landscapes within that country. IFLA members can work with local groups and officials to develop a cultural landscape heritage list in a collaborative manner.  A list-making process helps to raise awareness. 

The initial inventory list of cultural landscapes can be followed by a more detailed inventory of specific important landscapes over time. Documented landscapes may be eligible for listing on a national register of historic places as a public recognition of value.  Once listed on such registers, financial assistance through grant requests can be secured for needed preservation actions.

 

EXAMPLE List

Maine’s Historic Landscapes
Public Monument and Memorial Grounds

 

 

>> see additional Cultural Landscape Inventories from around the world

 

… the need to maintain community life as a fundamental, authentic and distinctive element of the cultural heritage of historic and traditional villages and the potential contribution tourism can bring . . .

Andong Recommendations, 2006