IN-PERSON London Heritages. Section A

Abstract

The conceptual construction of heritage involves complex layers that transcend classical definitions, encompassing both physical and symbolic aspects. We thus start from an expanded notion of heritage, understanding it as a dynamic process tied to the creation of meanings. In this context, we question how the Eurocentric concept of monumental heritage generates tensions when confronted with other realities, especially in the Global South. This analysis draws on Heritage Atmospheres, inspired by Peter Sloterdijk’s reflections on space and human experience, and Minor Urbanism, rooted in Deleuze and Guattari’s notion of Minor Literature, to explore these tensions. This approach allows us to move beyond dichotomies between material and intangible heritage, incorporating layers of complexity that range from physical and symbolic constructions to the dynamics of belonging and exclusion. By emphasizing the role of symbolic elements in identity production, we propose alternative epistemologies for interpreting and creating heritage in plural contexts. Through the lens of Minor Urbanism—understood as everyday acts of resistance by local communities—we examine how Heritage Atmospheres, shaped by diverse interpretations of heritage, provide a critical framework for analyzing patrimonialized territories. These insights reveal the intricate interplay of space, identity, and memory in urban areas of the Global South, offering a richer understanding of their cultural and social significance.