NCERT Book Class 7 EVS Preservation of historical structures

15. Preservation of historical structures

Our responsibility

Background

Historical structures are evidence of art, architecture and other parameters of civilisation of the past. It also is linked with our roots of culture. Architectural conservation deals with issues of prolonging the life and integrity of architectural materials, such as stone, brick, glass, metal and wood whereas monumental preservation is a tool to save older buildings. It is the act of maintaining and repairing existing historic materials and the retention of a property’s form as it has evolved over time.

Methodology

Select any structure in your neighbourhood, such as temple, mosque, church, gurudwara, mausoleum, palace, fort, library building of historic or administrative importance, etc., and try to find out —

1. When was it built and who built it?

2. Is it properly maintained or is it dilapidated?

3. If it is dilapidated, what according to you are the reasons for the changes – seepage, railway line nearby, birds and insects destroying it or due to children playing and defacing the monument, or human vandalism?

4. Find out how further deterioration can be prevented.

5. Find out whom to approach to prevent deterioration.

6. Try to procure a picture/photograph of the structure. To collect the above information one may seek help from elders, caretakers, state libraries and archaeological departments.

Conclusion

Based on the information collected, prepare a report and suggest measures to conserve and preserve the monument.

Follow-up

Report your study to the authorities taking care of the monument.

Please refer to attached file for NCERT Class 7 EVS Preservation of historical structures