• https://www.ljubljana.si/en/ljubljana-for-you/culture-in-ljubljana/19-th-world-conference-of-historical-cities/
• Conference Program

Adopted at the 19th World Conference of Historic Cities
Ljubljana, November 14, 2024

We, the mayors of the member cities of the League of Historic Cities, gathered in Ljubljana for the 19th World Conference of Historic Cities, acknowledge our shared responsibility to preserve and promote the cultural heritage of our cities for the benefit of future generations. Our historic cities, rich in architectural, cultural, and social significance, are living testaments to human creativity and resilience. They are crucial for fostering identity, community cohesion, and sustainable development.

Recognizing the challenges posed by rapid urbanization, climate change, technological advancements, and social transformations, we are committed to safeguarding our historic cities as vibrant, inclusive, and sustainable spaces that honour our past while embracing the future.

In pursuit of these objectives, we hereby declare our collective commitment to the following principles:

1. Cultural Heritage Preservation

We will continue to protect and restore the tangible and intangible cultural heritage of our historic cities. Through careful conservation and adaptive reuse of historic buildings, monuments, and public spaces, we will ensure that the legacy of our cities is preserved for future generations.

2. Sustainable Urban Development

We commit to integrating sustainable practices into urban planning and development. By promoting walkability, green infrastructure, sustainable mobility, reducing carbon emissions, and prioritizing energy efficiency, we aim to create cities that are environmentally resilient while maintaining their historic character.

3. Cultural Exchange and Cooperation

We will continue to promote dialogue and cooperation between member cities, sharing knowledge, best practices, and expertise in the preservation and management of historic cities. Through cultural exchange, we will strengthen international understanding and solidarity, and contribute to global peace and stability.

4. Education and Awareness

We are committed to raising awareness about the importance of cultural heritage among the younger generations. By promoting public awareness campaigns, and organizing cultural events, we aim to inspire a sense of pride and responsibility for the preservation of our cities.

5. Inclusive and Accessible Cities

We will work towards creating cities that are accessible to all, regardless of age, ability, or socio-economic status. By ensuring that our historic environments are inclusive and welcoming, we reaffirm our commitment to fostering equity and social justice within our cities.

In signing this Declaration, we pledge to support and collaborate in our efforts to protect the cultural heritage of historic cities while promoting sustainable urban development and reaffirm our shared dedication to the values and principles of the League of Historic Cities. Let the 19th World Conference in Ljubljana mark a turning point in our collective efforts to ensure that historic cities remain beacons of cultural heritage, sustainable development, and global cooperation.

Ljubljana, the capital of Slovenia, November 14, 2024