Revising the concept for cultural heritage: the argument for a functional approach

This article presents a more human, dynamic, and holistic perspective of cultural heritage, closely referring to the currently observed changes in its conceptual development. It argues that the conceptual focus of cultural heritage has shifted alongside three interrelated and complementary directions: 1) from monuments to people; 2) from objects to functions; and thus 3) from preservation per se to purposeful preservation, sustainable use, and development. The reappearing and alive functional heritage is discussed as opposed to the objectified, glass-covered, and frozen heritage of the past by referring to both practical and theoretical heritage domains. Conclusions are drawn in favor of an adequate reexamination and readaptation of the conceptual framework of cultural heritage, based on accepting its new functional socioeconomic dimension and integrating multiple perspectives from a variety of academic fields.