Fourth Congress on Cultural Heritage and Restoration in Havana

More than a hundred restorers, historians, archeologists and architects from 18 American and European nations are holding this week in Havana the Fourth Congress on Cultural Heritage and Restoration.

Stepping up efforts toward the restoration and conservation of chattels, striking a balance for natural heritage, linking tourism with cultural heritage and strengthening collaboration among experts from the sector are the event’s top priorities.

Lecturers from Mexico, the United States, Croatia and Argentina, among other nations, will exchange views and standpoints on this issue at the National Center for Conservation, Restoration and Museums, headquartered in the cloisters of the Santa Clara Convent, one of Old Havana’s architectural relics.

The conclave’s agenda includes the use of such new technology breakthroughs as optic fiber and its application to restoration works.

Grand tours around museums, technical visits to restored buildings and monuments in the oldest part of town, concerts and exhibits are some of the collateral activities scheduled for the meeting.

Sponsored by the Havana City Historian Office, the island’s Ministry of Culture and UNESCO’s Regional Integral Conservation Office of Cultural Assets for Latin America and the Caribbean, the event promises to be very successful, as some attendants have already pointed out.

The congress is also paid for by UNESCO’s Regional Cultural Office for Latin America and the Caribbean.