The spirit of old Tbilisi

At the beginning of June, the European Council Culture Programme held a 3-day "Identity and Spirit of Old Tbilisi" conference. It brought together architects, art historians, restoration experts, and interested international heritage enthusiasts to increase awareness of the cultural value of Tbilisi's urban heritage.

Over the next 12 months, the programme aims to preserve the cultural value of the city's architectural heritage and adapt it to contemporary building design. This is to ensure that Tbilisi does not lose its authenticity, uniqueness and historical character due to rapid urbanization and development.

In 1999, Georgia nominated the Tbilisi Historic District - the Old Town - to the World Heritage List. The WHL Committee deferred the nomination with recommendations to establish a management structure and guidelines for the rehabilitation and renovation of the Old Town. Hence the June conference hopes to gain international support to preserve the historical district for future generations and gain acceptance onto the World Heritage List.

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