Challenges in the Management and Research of Cultural Heritage. The Patrimonialization of the EB 1789 Canyon from the Eighteenth Century in San Antonio De Areco, Province of Buenos Aires, Argentina

In this chapter, several aspects of cultural heritage management are presented based on the experience of the enhancement and value revitalization of the EB 1789 cannon from the eighteenth century, in the town of San Antonio de Areco, Province of Buenos Aires (Argentina). These aspects raise the issue of negotiations and challenges in decision-making regarding cultural heritage. The complexity of patrimonialization also relates to the necessity and difficulty of the articulation process between the interests of the different social actors involved. Our objective during the management was to promote good practices for the protection of cultural heritage through research, conservation, and dissemination of strategies, concrete and experiential, that would help to promote heritage awareness in the community. We investigate the local social and cultural context, develop a good dialogue with the different social actors, and offer viable alternatives when issues arise while respecting the needs of the local community and political decisions. As we progressed, we deeply considered each decision and reflected upon each new situation, allowing this project to become implemented.