Werkraum Bregenzerwald. Shaping the Present and Future with Cultural Heritage

Renate Breuß, art and cultural historian, for many years head of the Werkraum Bregenzerwald, Rankweil

The Bregenzerwald is a highly interesting cultural region with the history of an outstanding building and living culture. Already in the Baroque period, master builders and artisans from the Bregenzerwald have provided significant examples of art history throughout Europe. In this succession stands the Werkraum Bregenzerwald, a modern association of 90 innovative craft enterprises. Through the close exchange with architects and designers, craftsmanship also has a firm place in contemporary architecture. Recognized internationally by UNESCO in 2016 as a best practice, the example of Werkraum Bregenzerwald illustrates how the knowledge and attitudes of the ancients can continue to develop in new forms in a lively and sustainable way in a rural region. In this understanding, cultural heritage is far more than just a story that has been awarded a label.