Industrial heritage

Industrial heritage refers to the physical and intangible legacy of industrialisation, including buildings, machinery, workshops, sites, and landscapes of historical and technological significance. Stefan Berger and Steven High define industrial heritage as a field that not only preserves material remains but also reflects the socio-economic and cultural transformations brought by industrialisation.

Industrial heritage also includes sociofacts, such as aspects of social and institutional organizations, and mentifacts, comprising the attitudinal characteristics and value systems associated with industrial heritage sites, reflecting its interdisciplinary nature.

The industrial heritage of a region forms part of its cultural heritage, contributing to local identity by reflecting historical progress and developments. The scientific study of industrial remains is called industrial archaeology. In this field, the principal international organization dedicated to the study and preservation of industrial heritage is the International Committee for the Conservation of the Industrial Heritage, known as TICCIH. The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) recognizes industrial heritage as a significant element of cultural heritage and provides international frameworks for the identification, protection, and management of key industrial sites.

The preservation and study of industrial heritage are partly motivated by a desire to promote innovation and ingenuity, as well as by efforts to address the consequences of irreversible loss.