Local potentials for a sustainable heritage management

Nowadays, there is a shift in the protection principles regarding cultural heritage, from object-centred practices to community-based strategies. This paper presents the potential of the traditional social organisation for a sustainable heritage management. The Saxon Villages from Transylvania show how vernacular architecture is the built expression of a particular traditional community organisation. By analysing the difficulties and successes of the current practice on cultural heritage in Transylvanian Saxon Villages, and by extrapolation of its principles, the authors trace some guidelines for further interventions. As there is a certain need for international experience exchange, this paper aims to contribute to a better understanding of the social mechanisms and dynamics that provide the success of a sustainable heritage management.