Exploring the heritage dimension of vineyard landscapes based on a critical approach to their inscription on the World Heritage List

ABSTRACT Vineyard landscapes are an excellent example of cultural landscapes that represent the interactions between nature and culture, providing many of them with a unique heritage value. This study takes a critical approach to the nomination processes of World Heritage vineyard landscapes, focusing on the practical application of the eligibility criteria and the key concepts of Outstanding Universal Value (OUV), authenticity and integrity. A detailed comparative study of the nine specific vineyard cultural landscapes included in the World Heritage List has been conducted based on three primary sources: the Nomination Files, the Advisory Bodies Evaluations and the minutes of the World Heritage Committee meetings with the decisions to inscribe or not to inscribe the sites. A systematic analysis of the many recommendations issued by ICOMOS to the States Parties and their comparison with the Committee’s decisions has provided insight into the evolution of perspectives. In turn, these have given rise to a discussion regarding several aspects: inscription categories, names and surface areas of the properties, duration of the process, OUV and attributes that embody said value, authenticity and integrity, boundaries and management plans. Thus, this paper will shine a light on the difficult subject of identifying outstanding heritage specificities and linking OUV to the territorial conservation and management of living rural landscapes.