Rugilė Puodžiūnienė (Vilnius University)
This presentation discusses the development and key components of the Management Plan for the Historic Centre of Vilnius, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which should be completed by the end of 2023. Initiated by Vilnius City Municipality in close collaboration with the Ministry of Culture of the Republic of Lithuania and drafted by a special group of experts, the document aims to address the challenges faced by the property and outline short- and long-term strategic actions. The document is important because until now, Vilnius Historical Centre has not had such a plan and its preparation would fulfill international obligations and engage the public in more effective protection and sustainable use of cultural heritage in Vilnius Historic Centre and its buffer zone.
The involvement of the public in the drafting process is emphasized, as it allows for a comprehensive understanding of the main issues within the UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Plan serves as a strategic management tool rather than a spatial planning document, focusing on the protection and management of the Outstanding Universal Value of Vilnius Historic Centre.
The paper highlights the interdisciplinary nature of the drafting process of this document and analyzes the key challenges identified through a Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats (SWOT) analysis. The Plan proposes potential solutions and actions in various areas (conservation of the Outstanding Universal Value, management of change, education and awareness-raising about the World Heritage Site and the Historic Centre of Vilnius, tourism, risk management and resilience, etc.) to be included in the Action Plan and determines the mechanism for its implementation, monitoring, and updates. Successful implementation of the Plan necessitates the agreement of all stakeholder groups on common priorities, actions, and responsibilities to ensure the preservation and proper management of Vilnius Historic Centre. The experiences and findings of the public consultation will be presented. The Plan adheres to the international provisions of the UNESCO Convention Concerning the Protection of World Cultural and Natural Heritage and its Implementation Guidelines.
By adopting a comprehensive and interdisciplinary approach, the Management Plan for the Historic Centre of Vilnius aims to conserve this invaluable UNESCO World Heritage Site and guide present and future generations in the planning and preservation of the area.