kulttuurimaisema

Kulttuurimaisema refers to a landscape that has been shaped by human activity over time and possesses cultural significance. It is not merely a natural environment but a complex entity where natural elements and human influences are intertwined. These landscapes can range from rural agricultural areas and historic urban settings to industrial sites and even intangible cultural heritage manifested in the landscape.

The concept of kulttuurimaisema emphasizes the long-term interaction between people and their environment. It acknowledges that landscapes are not static but evolve through generations of human use, adaptation, and modification. This includes practices like farming, building, resource extraction, and settlement. The cultural value arises from the history, traditions, memories, and aesthetic qualities associated with these human-shaped environments.

Recognizing and preserving kulttuurimaisema is important for understanding cultural identity, historical continuity, and biodiversity. These landscapes often hold significant archaeological, architectural, and ethnographic value. They can also provide insights into past ways of life and the relationship between society and nature. Management and planning for kulttuurimaisema aim to balance conservation needs with contemporary land use and development, ensuring that their cultural values are maintained for future generations.