‘Living Heritage’ event to promote heritage conservation in Colombo

Ever get the sense that the city of your childhood has changed beyond recognition? That building you knew and loved that just one day varnished into a pile of bricks? But that no one ever asked you if you wanted another faceless glass office? 

How can you shape change to make sure that what matters is preserved? How can the city make the most of what is valuable?! What can be done both to better plan its future of the city and to make sure that its inhabitants have their say?

Come to ‘Living Heritage’ on 13 and 14 December! The European Union, together with the Embassies of the Kingdom of the Netherlands and the Federal Republic of Germany and the British Council, is working with Sri Lankan activists and architects to promote the value of the heritage of Colombo. Internationally renowned experts from Europe and neighbouring countries will share their experiences of how best to promote heritage conservation, involve authorities, local businesses and communities in city planning, and maximise the value of Colombo’s many traditions to attract tourists and investment.

Speakers will include the celebrated Indian architect, Abha Narain Lambah, Burmese architect Chaw Kalyar, European international heritage experts, Paul Meurs, Karl Damschen and Guillaume Josse. Sri Lankan architects Anjalendran, Channa Daswatte and Thisara Thanapathy, will showcase some of the most engaging heritage from the country. Full details of the program for the main conference and the special guided workshops and visits are available at https://www.facebook.com/LivingHeritageSriLanka/.

But places are limited. Please register at [email protected].

The European Union is delighted that the event will be opened by Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe, on 13 December.