ABSTRACT
This chapter examines the phenomenon of heritage landscapes by first exploring the evolution and contemporary social construction of the heritage concept itself, identifying the meanings and problems inherent in this articulation of the past. The heritage guides to Britain which appeared in the post-war period also used the appeal of landscape as the main strand in their patriotic treatment of our heritage. The evolution of the concept of heritage has, in many ways, reflected the changing attitudes to the past held by successive generations. Representing historic and archaeological fact alongside more mythical dimensions is difficult in terms of scholarship. An awareness of the mythical dimensions of heritage landscapes should perhaps be seen as part of this movement. Heritage is a powerful force in contemporary society and it is articulated through our towns and cities, through the collections of material culture that value and put on display, and through the landscape.
