To restore state-owned historic sites, the National Property Administration has put out tenders to lease 80 locations. The controversial move was criticized by academic and cultural figures as short-sighted and has sparked concern over damage that might be caused to the sites. This is no petty matter, and the criticism is not unfounded.
There are many examples of historic sites being misused or abused through commercialization. For instance, the management of Greater Tainan’s Canal Museum was outsourced to a private company that let vendors sell stir-fried food inside the building. It is not difficult to imagine what effect this had on educating the public about the museum’s role.
Many Taiwanese enjoy visiting developed countries such as the US, Japan and European nations, and appreciate the connections that people in those places have with their cultural heritage.
A few years ago, I visited Austria, Germany, Switzerland, Britain and France — all of which have done a good job of preserving their cultural heritage, including the homes of Wolfang Amadeus Mozart and Claude Monet. This had a profound impact on me, as these nations give future generations a chance to appreciate the cultural heritage passed down from their ancestors.
For example, to preserve historic castles and protect them from abuse and damage from commercial activities, the British established various foundations to raise funds to preserve these buildings, which have become a part of the British cultural heritage that attracts visitors from around the world.
Japan is a favorite destination for Taiwanese because visitors can not only enjoy first-class service, they can immerse themselves in alleys, streets and temples rich in Japanese culture. Sites in Kyoto and Nara, such as Todai-ji and Kinkaku-ji, are well-preserved, and their surroundings are neat and clean, which is why tourists are more than happy to make repeat visits.
What is unique about the historic sites in these countries is that there are no commercial activities that are not relevant to cultural promotion. More important, these sites have a great influence on promoting the nations’ history and national identity.
The history of Taiwan is a journey through diverse cultures that have left the island with a rich heritage. However, over-commercialization has destroyed many historic sites — and the island’s unique heritage.
Japan has had its own ups and downs in the 20th century and in recent years academics have suggested that Japan should use culture as the foundation of national development in order to preserve its heritage.
Taiwan’s government should not be so short-sighted that it sees only the benefits of leasing historic sites to ease its financial burden. There is no guarantee that such rentals will work, and the nation will lose more than it gains if these sites are ruined.
Historic sites should be given the cultural dignity that they deserve.
Han Tzu-shian is a professor of business administration at National Chengchi University.
Translated by Ethan Zhan
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