The Routledge Handbook on Historic Urban Landscapes in the Asia-Pacific

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This handbook explores the complexities of urban heritage management in the Asia-Pacific region, addressing the urgent need for effective solutions amidst global and ecological changes. Urban heritage, while under threat, remains a crucial social, cultural, and economic asset for enhancing the livability of urban areas worldwide. The volume is organized into six parts, critically examining the concept of Historic Urban Landscapes, as promoted by UNESCO for holistic urban heritage management. It delves into the challenges faced by heritage managers in conceptualizing, mapping, curating, and sustaining the diverse aspects of urban heritage within specific geo-cultural contexts. The chapters collectively emphasize that urban heritage management should view cities as dynamic entities—palimpsests of historical memories and sites of social diversity and contested identities. This collection advocates for recognizing the interconnectedness of the eco-cultural urban fabric, embracing change, fostering social cohesion, and promoting strategic socio-economic development in the conservation of historic landscapes. Featuring thirty-six contributions from regional experts and over 200 illustrations, this volume serves as an essential resource for students, scholars, and researchers interested in historic urban landscapes.