This experimental research platform offers insights into the potential futures of UNESCO World Heritage (WH) theory and practice, in light of the global ecological crisis.

In practical terms, urban WH sites are celebrated as dynamic, adaptable and living laboratories, key to the future resilience of the shared memory of humankind.

In theoretical terms, the evolving concept of WH ‘authenticity’ serves as a primary lens through which heritage value is identified, curated and disseminated.*

* how far this concept will evolve – in the context of a terminal existential threat to humanity – remains to be seen.

JW, 2024.