Intersection between Preservation and Urban Development of the Historic Centers and a new approach to Integrated Planning and Development

Abstract

The Historic Center of Prizren is one of the most outstanding zones of urban heritage in Kosovo, with valuable traces of diverse historical and cultural heritage. Although it represents a significant asset for the social and economic development of the city, for a long time its immense potential, including cultural, historical, tourist and environmental, has not been treated with the appropriate approach that would preserve, promote and materialize those cultural riches. This study aims to research the intersection between historic preservation and urban development; how can the Historic Center of Prizren be integrated into modern daily life and be used for the development of the whole city. A thorough insight into international experiences, both regarding legislation on preservation, integrated planning, and development control, as well as heritage preservation, will clarify the domain and the scope of intertwined activities in the complex and stratified urban fabric. Based on findings which are a result of analyses, interviews, and questionnaires, comparative and evaluation methods used, this study presents a new approach to preservation and planning for the city of Prizren. This approach would provide a sustainable development of the city, in the physical, social, economic and spatial aspects, while protecting and preserving the cultural, historical and natural heritage of the city. The preservation and urban development of the Historic Centre of Prizren requires an integrated approach of policies for sustainable socio-economic and environmental development and in harmony with the modern life, oriented to culture and tourism, and by respecting the private rights. This approach suggests taking a step further than the traditional conservation and preservation policies, and transforming the historic center of Prizren into an area full of life.