The interpretation given of authenticity was challenged by several members who did not consider that it necessarily entailed maintaining the original function of property which, to ensure its preservation, often had to be adapted to other functions. Another member specified that functions could change but when this different function entailed fundamental and irreversible changes to the original form, authenticity should be considered as lost. The same member went on to plead that due recognition be given to "progressive authenticity", for example, monuments and buildings that are constructed or modified throughout the centuries but which nevertheless retain some form of authenticity.
Decision 1 COM VI.A(c).30
Criteria for the inclusion of cultural properties in the World Heritage List
Decision Code
1 COM VI.A(c).30
Year
1977
Documents
CC-77/CONF.001/9
Final report - List of Participants