ABSTRACT
This chapter discusses some of the ways in which heritage is represented by residents with various relationships to the old city. It explains with an early attempt by conservation professionals to define the 'historic monument' in the Yemeni context. The UNESCO Campaign seems to have renewed appreciation for the local architecture. Despite the many problems and limitations of the conservation effort, one is struck by this very old urban fabric, an architectural 'jewel' a phrase that often heard from officials and residents whose physical decline has been slowed or arrested. But their number remains small: living in the old city continues to carry a social stigma, especially for the educated. The differing interpretations of historic value would be in part resolved by a classification system. The terms 'archeological' and 'historic' are commonly used at GOPHCY, although one professional says there is still no consistent distinction between them at the technical level.
