An Intercultural Approach for the Protection and Promotion of Common Cultural Heritage: The Case of Byzantine Monuments in Serbia

In this work the documentation and classification of monuments based on common characteristics in architecture and painting is examined, aiming at the protection and promotion of common cultural heritage. A comparative study was elaborated between Greek and Serbian monasteries in the Byzantine period. The fields and parameters of the study were set by historical data. The operations of a Geographical Information System were used to define the relations between Greek and Serbian monasteries and to classify the Serbian monuments by field of research: architectural typology, exterior decoration and painting style. The comparative study resulted in the consolidation of the selected monasteries into two cultural routes. It is concluded that the identification and documentation of common cultural heritage through intercultural data and information technology can advance the exchange of knowledge, technologies, practices and policies and the establishment of a common strategic plan for the safeguarding and promotion of common cultural heritage.