Dear Readers,

For a number of years we have been observing the negative phenomenon of a constant deterioration of the quality of documentation accompanying assorted conservation undertakings. The reasons for this state of affairs appear to be myriad, and their enumeration would soon change into a long list of grievances. Mention is due to systemic transformation and the end of an era of a monopolist – the State Ateliers for the Conservation of Historical Monuments, which for decades defined the principles of professional documentation. Other noteworthy factors include the contemporary dictate of the investor and his frequent and exaggerated expectations concerning the future use of monuments. Let us also notice the decline of the profession and a dramatic absence of the professional training of architects acting in the realm of architectural monuments; the latter context entails the discernible conflict between the properly understood value of a monument, which deserves to be protected, and the creative ambitions of the designer. Finally, let us stress insufficient financial funds, which impose the necessity of tackling, first and foremost, the threatened historical substance instead of time-consuming research and project documentation, preceding all other work. In this situation, who would even think about documenting assorted endeavours concerning the monument? At the same time, we should also ask: who is to speak in favour of the monument as such, often seriously threatened or outright damaged by ill–considered, incorrectly planned, badly designed and unprofessionally documented conservation? You will find an attempt at delineating indispensable standards for project documentation in a dialogue about these fundamental questions. I would like to draw your attention to a new perception of a prominent issue, associated with the suitable preparation of a conservation project and conduct affecting monuments of architecture. At this stage, it is worth recalling a wider historical context connected with conservation projects, and thus becoming acquainted with the origin of the present-day situation, focusing on a diagnosis of the prevailing state of things, recollecting the oft-forgotten elementary rules and principles and, finally, reaching for the proposals made by interdisciplinary efforts intent on devising contemporary documentation principles. A closer examination of these topical texts is proposed by examples illustrating the way in which project errors may damage the qualities of authenticity, and hence permanently deprive valuable monuments of their assets, thus questioning the very sense of initiating and conducting conservation. Respectfully yours Marcin Gawlicki Director of the National Heritage Board of Polan