A Participatory Approach to Developing an Integrated and Sustainable Management Plan: The Case of Regensburg

There has been a fundamental shift in the societal and academic perception of cultural heritage and the role of local communities since the UNESCO member states adopted the Convention Concerning the Protection of the World Cultural and Natural Heritage (World Heritage Convention) over half a century ago. Initially characterized by a linear perspective focused on conserving objects in their original materiality, this understanding has gradually broadened and evolved into a holistic and systemic conceptualization of cultural heritage. The paper argues that contemporary challenges, such as pandemics, armed conflicts, and the climate crisis, require dynamic and adaptive management strategies for World Heritage sites. However, the formal role of World Heritage site management remains poorly defined, lacking detailed descriptions of the competencies and responsibilities necessary to address these evolving challenges effectively. This contribution critically examines the requirements for modern site management. It emphasizes the need for a more comprehensive approach that includes not only tangible and intangible heritage but also all the elements of the interlinked heritage system, including context, actors, processes, etc. It outlines the essential roles, personal qualities, and skills required for managers to cope with the complexity of heritage management today. The article provides valuable insights into the Regensburg World Heritage Management Plan as an example of sustainable and inclusive cultural heritage management. It emphasizes an action-oriented, participatory approach to the management of historic urban landscapes that effectively reconciles conservation with sustainable urban development. The case study underscores the importance of interdisciplinary coordination, stakeholder collaboration and capacity building tailored to the current site management challenges. By offering a practical and adaptable approach, it serves as a replicable template for other World Heritage sites wishing to implement sustainable, inclusive, and adaptive management practices.