A comparative study of heritage law in relation to cultural factors, in particular the issues facing modern communities living with ancient sites.

The aim of the project  is to examine the relationship between World Heritage status and the modern communities respectively of Herculaneum and Blaenavon.  The importance of these two sites has been recognised by the award of World Heritage status.  Yet the awareness and perceptions of the importance of World Heritage status to their respective local communities have been questioned.  The project examines how the interpretation of heritage can build relationships between archaeological sites and monuments in care and the modern community and how the relationship can be exploited for the reinvigoration and regeneration of modern communities specifically in the case of Blaenavon and Herculaneum.

The Herculaneum Conservation Project along with the Blaenavon World Heritage Site have provided support, contacts, information and access to materials.

You can find the new weblog for discussion of the project, where local communities and professionals can share their views and debate issues facing modern communities living with ancient sites at http://communityworldheritage.wordpress.com/