The Principles of Protection and Improvement of Historic Urban Areas Implemented in the Plan of Detailed Regulation of the Old Core of Zemun

Abstract

Spatial cultural-historical units are the oldest urban spaces which, with their urban and architectural heritage and cultural levels, certify about the history of the city through all phases of its existence. Continuity is an important determinant for understanding the evolution of each settlement. The Old Core of Zemun in its contemporary shape was already created, by the end of the 18th century. It represents a unique urban phenomenon, expressed through the variety of shapes, contents and meaninigs, because of which it was proclaimed the spatial, cultural-historical unit of great significance for the Republic of Serbia. Protecting the historic centre of Zemun means his adaptation to the needs of modern life, with full respect of its essence, structure and history. It can only be realized within the framework of spatial arrangement and urban planning. The task of modern urban planning is to preserve the traditional values of the city which have to be recognized, properly read and interpreted by cultural messages, according to the new requirements, techniques and technologies. The Plan of Detailed Regulation of the Old Core of Zemun defined concept of urban renewal and reconstruction of the historical core of Zemun. The development opportunities of this space have been defined in the direction of quality transformation of space that implies protection of the character of the existing tissue, preservation and improvement of public space, conservation of land division, horizontal and vertical regulation, autochthonous architecture, revitalisation of the existing and redefining new purposes for buildings and space with exceptional cultural-historical, architectural-urban and ambient values, as well as protection of vistas, silhouette and town skyline. The historical core of Zemun, as a multi-layer city organism, has been treated through the interdisciplinary conversation and planning procedure of revitalisation and reconstruction of the limited scope, which is necessary to resolve the actual contradictions of life, expressed between the heritage and modern needs. The Plan is the basis for future transformation of existing building fund according to the contemporary principles of protection and improvement the urban heritage.