PANEL: SACRED SPACES AND COMMUNITY HERITAGE: BRIDGING THE TANGIBLE AND INTANGIBLE
11/07/2025 08:30 - 16:15
HALL: Lecture Hall 50

Proponent: Bartolomei L., Buoncore G., Dimodugno D.

Chair: Buoncore G., Dimodugno D.

Speaker: Arno M., Baraka Akilimali J., Bartolomei L., Buoncore G., Damiani G., Dimodugno D., Jordan K., Lee G., Menéndez Montero V., Pandolfini P., Roggenkamp A., Rosenbergova S., Roumeas E., Salerno R.

The concept of sacred space transcends physical boundaries, intertwining tangible heritage—such as architectural structures and ritual artifacts—with intangible dimensions, including spiritual practices, oral traditions, and cultural beliefs. This panel aims to explore the multifaceted nature of sacred spaces, investigating how the physical and metaphysical coexist to shape cultural identity and collective memory.
Scholars are particularly invited to reflect on how sacred spaces' tangible and intangible dimensions can inform contemporary design practices. The discussion will also address critical legal and ethical challenges: how can the notions of tangible and intangible heritage be defined, protected, and harmonized within legal frameworks? What mechanisms can ensure that the preservation of physical elements does not come at the expense of intangible cultural expressions, and vice versa?
The panel will further explore the apparent dichotomy between tangible and intangible heritage, proposing that these concepts, often perceived as contrasting, can be reconciled through an all-around approach. By envisioning sacred spaces as dynamic entities where material and immaterial coexist in mutual support, it becomes possible to transcend traditional divides and foster innovative, inclusive strategies for their preservation and evolution.
By addressing these themes, the panel seeks to inspire architects, legal experts, and cultural practitioners to engage in interdisciplinary dialogue, offering a comprehensive understanding of sacred spaces and their stewardship in a rapidly changing world.

669.1
SACRED PARADOXES: RECONCILING TANGIBLE AND INTANGIBLE HERITAGE

Bartolomei L. *

Centro Studi Cherubino Ghirardacci ~ Bologna ~ Italy
669.4
LIFE AND FORMS OF THE SACRED SPACE

Buoncore G. *

Univerisity of Florence ~ Firenze ~ Italy
669.10
669.13
RETHINKING SACRED HERITAGE BETWEEN RESTORATION AND SOCIAL PRACTICE: ST ANTONY'S CHURCH IN FOREST GATE, EAST LONDON 

Lee G. * [1] , Damiani G. * [2]

University of Kent ~ Canterbury ~ United Kingdom [1] , Anglia Ruskin University ~ Chelmsford ~ United Kingdom [2]