| | In intense urbanization and aggressive housing constructions, characteristic
for transition period in Serbia, establishing a balance between existing and planned
urban matrix, as well between historical and contemporary architecture, is a major
challenge. Without an integrative approach in planning, land use and conservation
practices, continuity of spatial, historical, social and cultural values could not exist.
Unprotected historical urban areas represent particularly endangered category because
of their attractive location. Awareness of existing built heritage values and potentials, as
well as opportunities for certain buildings reuse, is often non-existent. Losing urban
heritage without a trace, before it was even valorised, we also lose the genius loci.
Almaški kraj, one of the oldest parts of Novi Sad, is multi-functional urban area
consisting of old traditional houses, family residential buildings from the nineteenth
century, old craft workshops and factories. Although original irregular street matrix is
relatively well preserved until today, due to gradual disappearance of the old building
stock during transitional period, Almaški kraj is gradually changing its character.
Reconsidering principles of integrative protection, paper aims to formulate a
methodological framework for a multidisciplinary approach in solving planning and
conservation issues in the process of urban renewal of historical areas. Integrative
approach should connect the cultural, social and economic components, not only in order to preserve the most valuable material and intangible heritage, but also to enable
sustainable spatial and social development of historical area. |
