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Reexamining frameworks for maritime heritage stewardship: A critical analysis of how Venice Charter principles shape current approaches complex notions of identity and cultural exchange
Author(s)
Date Issued
2024
Citation
Xie, J., & Zhou, H. (27 May 2024). Reexamining frameworks for maritime heritage stewardship: A critical analysis of how Venice Charter principles shape current approaches complex notions of identity and cultural exchange. International Congress ‘Venice Charter [Re]Framed, ’University of Lisbon, Portugal.
Type
Conference Paper
Abstract
This essay examines the development of the Underwater Cultural Heritage Convention in relation to the Venice Charter. It argues the UCH Convention and other ICOMOS charters derive from principles in the Venice Charter, but the predominant focus on shipwrecks has limited understanding of the ocean's past by overlooking non-material dimensions like memories and narratives. Through comprehensive analysis, the research challenges archaeological perspectives that obscures more inclusive approaches embracing diverse narratives and complexities from factors like forced migration. It also analyzes how heritage dominance grounded in territorial sovereignty models endures from land-based
heritage definitions excluding varied ocean perspectives. By evaluating entrenched weaknesses, this research contributes to ongoing discourse of maritime heritage. It highlights importance of safeguarding immaterial aspects like the narratives which breathe life into artifacts. A wider conceptual lens embracing cultural complexity within bounded yet borderless waters may nourish awareness of
humanity's interwoven maritime heritage. In reexamining assumptions, this work offers critical insight for strengthening international guidelines. Adjusting rigid definitions and opening governance to plurality could better serve underwater heritage’s diverse facets through cooperative stewardship reflecting our ocean’s fluid yet foundational role in world history.
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