A retrospective approach to managing cultural heritage in a changing climate

Climate change is not new, but the acceleration is. Through the decades, people have had to adapt to changes in climatic conditions, which are visible in our built heritage. Despite ongoing discussions regarding historic climate adaptation, this is seldom connected to the management of cultural heritage. Relevant literature and a review of three projects form the background for presenting a work model for developing knowledge-based adaptation strategies at municipality level with a retrospective approach. This is followed by examples of the kinds of data that can be retrieved by incorporating historic adaptation measures. The results show that one can collect specific local information on areas of settlement, preferable materials and adapted building structures but cannot deem them as measures for climate related issues. This is an additional interpretation. However, this article clarifies positive outcomes if historical adaptation measures are included in cultural heritage management. Increased knowledge related to specific localities may benefit the local authorities and enhance the quality of cultural heritage management and urban planning