On 21–24 October 2025, the 15th Regional Conference of the Organization of World Heritage Cities (OWHC) for the Regional Secretariat of Central and Eastern Europe took place in two UNESCO World Heritage cities: Kraków (Poland) and Banská Štiavnica (Slovakia).

The main theme of the event was: “World Heritage Listing: Impacts on Cities and Communities”

The conference brought together representatives of member cities, heritage managers, and experts to exchange knowledge and develop joint strategies. The discussions were engaging, substantive, and highly productive – strengthening cooperation among World Heritage cities in the region.

World Heritage listing and its influence on the functioning of cities

The opening sessions in Kraków focused on the consequences of UNESCO designation for urban policy, tourism, local communities, and spatial planning. Speakers presented:

• Kraków’s experiences in balancing heritage protection and urban vitality,
• Warsaw’s approach to the Historic Urban Landscape concept,
• examples from Regensburg and Banska Stiavnica regarding revitalization and heritage management.

The session emphasized the importance of community engagement, sustainable development, and long-term planning tools to protect urban heritage values.

New architecture in World Heritage cities

The second thematic block addressed contemporary architecture introduced into historic urban environments. Case studies included:

• Kraków – reinterpretation of heritage in projects by Lewicki Łatak Studio,
• Vilnius – lessons learned from building in historic settings,
• Budapest and Riga – the role of protected skylines and urban character.

Speakers agreed that new architecture can enhance heritage areas when designed with respect for local identity and social needs.

Underground heritage – preserving the hidden layers of history

The conference then continued in Banská Štiavnica, where the spotlight turned to underground cultural heritage: former mines, archaeological layers, and historic technical infrastructure. Presentations covered:

• the mining heritage of the Banská Štiavnica region,
• protection of the underground world of Vilnius,
• multilayered heritage beneath Istanbul,
• renovation of Dubrovnik’s historic sewage system,
• archaeological heritage of Chernivtsi.

The discussions underlined the need for advanced research, monitoring, and modern conservation solutions for these vulnerable heritage assets.