Local conservation and perceptions of heritage in Old Rauma World Heritage Site

This article focuses on the residents of Old Rauma and their experiences of living in a World Heritage site and living, working and recreating in historic buildings. The aim is to trace residents' divergent frames of reference and values about heritage, as understanding resident-constructed meanings are essential for the management of an international convention that applies to privately owned properties. Our research identifies three community groups in Old Rauma, and suggests that the community networks of Old Rauma are potentially useful for promoting conservation. World Heritage Site like Old Rauma would benefit if there were forums for communication and social learning where different approaches to managing the conservation area could be shared. A more profound knowledge of local values, needs, community dynamics and locally developed, practical conservation methods would support governance and advisory bodies in their work.