3.3.1 On the Value of the Intangible Architectural...
In international policy, architectural heritage belongs to the tangible cultural heritage group because of its physical attributes.However, buildings do not exist in isolation.In ancient China, intangible factors of architectural heritage were specially emphasized.Taoist philosophy profoundly influenced the culture of architecture, stressed the relationship of “You”[57]and “Wu”[58]which indicates the importance of intangible aspects of objects in Chinese culture.Intangible culture is always an essential element of building.Therefore, Chinese ancient architecture is not only concerned with the physical form of appearance, structure, and materials, but also the intangible heritage including aesthetic, lifestyle, handcrafts and cultural connotation behind of the architectural heritage.
Chinese conservation concepts, therefore pay attention to the restoration of the whole, including the spirit of architectural relics.The ultimate goal of restoration is not only the building itself, but spirit and culture behind it.Article 11 in the Qufu Declaration declared that the protection of architectural relics not only protects the relics themselves, but also their traditional culture, materials and crafts.Otherwise, there is no relic protection at all.[59](https://www.daowen.com)
In actuality, the authenticity and integrity of the Chinese conservation principles are closely related to the intangible cultural heritage.Article 1 emphasized that “Intangible heritage is an important medium for retaining the significance at a site and is a ‘living’ attribute.Conservation of these types of sites must also include intangible forms of cultural heritage.”[60]And Article 13 specially pointed out that “when a heritage site’s values depend on the continuation of associated cultural traditions, consideration needs to be given to preserving these traditions along with the site itself.”[61]
Therefore, in Chinese conservation concepts, the preservation of intangible element of architectural heritage is as important as the tangible elements.Without intangible elements, tangible elements of architectural heritage will be changed easily or may even be demolished.For example, the former residences of historical figures without their historical and cultural significance are only common houses which can be easily transformed or torn down.It is the intangible cultural spirit behind these ordinary and even shabby looking homes that demonstrates the value of these buildings.