50 Years of World Heritage in Latin America

Wednesday Oct. 23, 2024 , noon to 1 p.m.
Location: DEAN'S CONFERENCE ROOM (GOL 2.302B)
The School of Architecture, in collaboration with the Lozano Long Institute for Latin American Studies (LLILAS) and the Historic Preservation Program, is pleased to invite you to an insightful presentation commemorating five decades of World Heritage in Latin America.
50 Years of World Heritage in Latin America Poster

As distinguished experts in heritage conservation, Dr. Nelly Robles and Dr. Francisco Lopez will offer a comprehensive overview of the past 50 years of World Heritage in Latin America, exploring the successes, challenges, and ongoing debates surrounding heritage sites across the region. This presentation will delve into:

  • The evolving role of World Heritage designations in preserving Latin America’s cultural and natural treasures.
  • Reflections on the challenges faced by heritage sites in the face of globalization, environmental changes, and political dynamics.
  • Emerging perspectives and strategies for the future of heritage conservation in Latin America.

This is a unique opportunity to hear from two prominent scholars whose research and work have significantly shaped the discourse on heritage preservation in Latin America. Their expertise will highlight critical issues and inspire forward-thinking solutions for the decades to come. We look forward to having you join us for this exceptional presentation and the following stimulating discussion.

This event is free and open to the public. 
Whether you are a student, faculty member, professional in architecture, preservation, or Latin American studies, or simply passionate about protecting our global heritage, we welcome your presence.

We encourage early attendance, as seating is limited. For more information, please contact Benjamin Ibarra-Sevilla b.ibarra@utexas.edu.


Dr. Nelly Robles García is a distinguished Mexican archaeologist recognized for her significant contributions to archaeology, particularly in the study of Oaxaca's ancient civilizations. With a career spanning several decades, Dr. Robles García has made an indelible mark on our understanding of Mesoamerican cultures through her extensive research, excavations, and scholarship.

Dr. Robles García earned her academic credentials from prestigious institutions, dedicating her life to unearthing and preserving the rich history of Indigenous cultures in Mexico. Her work often focuses on the Zapotec civilization, which flourished in the Oaxaca region. She is particularly noted for her leadership in excavating and restoring the Monte Albán archaeological site, a UNESCO World Heritage site that offers invaluable insights into pre-Columbian Mesoamerican societies.

Beyond her fieldwork, Dr. Robles García is an advocate for the protection and conservation of archaeological sites, working closely with local communities and international organizations to ensure the safeguarding of these cultural treasures. She has published numerous scholarly articles and books, sharing her findings with the academic community and the public, enriching our global heritage knowledge.

Dr. Francisco López Morales is an esteemed cultural heritage conservation and management expert. He is renowned for his advocacy and contributions to preserving World Heritage sites, particularly within Mexico. His career has been marked by a deep commitment to safeguarding cultural legacies and promoting heritage conservation principles on a global scale.

Having served as Mexico's representative to the World Heritage Committee, Dr. López Morales played a pivotal role in championing the cause of heritage sites across Mexico, ensuring their recognition and protection under UNESCO's World Heritage Convention. His tenure at the Instituto Nacional de Antropología e Historia (INAH) further solidified his reputation as a leader in the field, where he oversaw numerous conservation projects and collaborated with international bodies to advance heritage preservation.

Dr. López Morales's expertise spans a wide range of areas, including urban conservation, architectural restoration, and the development of sustainable tourism practices that respect and preserve cultural heritage. His work often emphasizes the importance of community involvement in heritage conservation efforts, advocating for inclusive, participatory, and respectful approaches to local traditions and values.

Headshot of Dr. Nelly Robles García
Dr. Nelly Robles García

 

Headshot of Francisco Lopez
Dr. Francisco López Morales