ABSTRACT

The underpinning principle of European patrimony is that our cultural heritage is an invaluable legacy and

integral to our future1: in recognition of the fragile and finite nature of our heritage, European policy has sought to identify the best, most sustainable means of conserving our cultural heritage.2 (In this context

‘conservation’ is taken as an umbrella term to describe a wide range of measures aimed at preventing damage and protecting cultural assets; in this regard ‘preservation’ is only one option).