Cultural Heritage of Observatories

Astronomical observatories, while evolving in architecture and instrumentation, often lack the 'Outstanding Universal Value' required for UNESCO World Heritage Site inscription. However, they can be recognized as 'Outstanding Astronomical Heritage' by the IAU if they demonstrate significant scientific achievements. This study traces the development of observatories from Early Modern times to contemporary structures, highlighting transitions such as Baroque to neo-classical designs and the shift from classical astronomy to modern astrophysics around 1900. Recent observatories, like ESO's Very Large Telescope or Jodrell Bank, have departed from traditional dome shapes, emphasizing metallic structures. The UNESCO initiative 'Astronomy & World Heritage' could be expanded to include broader scientific and technological heritage, such as university campuses or meteorological laboratories. Notable examples of astronomical heritage for education and public outreach include the Gottorf Globe, Eise Eisinga Planetarium in Franeker, and Carl Zeiss's projection planetarium.

Wolfschmidt, G. (2024). Cultural Heritage of Observatories. Cosmovisiones / Cosmovisões, 5(1), 147–157. https://doi.org/10.24215/26840162e012