Integration of Heritage Sites with the Community A Case Study of the Seven Domed Mosque, Dhaka

Abstract

Bangladesh, a country with a diverse combination of heritage sites and artifacts, faces challenges in heritage conservation due to  natural calamities, poor upkeep, and lack of political will and funding. Community-based heritage tourism, which benefits both the  heritage site and the community in social, economic, and environmental aspects, has received less attention in Bangladesh. This study  aimed to integrate the Seven Domed Mosque in Dhaka with the local community to recommend measures for its preservation. The  Triple Bottom Line Approach was used to identify and study social, economic, and environmental indicators, and qualitative data was  collected through direct observation and interviews with local residents and stakeholders. The study found that the mosque faces  threats to its identity and integrity, including unauthorized modifications and construction. The paper recommended raising awareness about cultural heritage, conserving deteriorating parts of the mosque, attracting tourists, enforcing laws to prevent  encroachment, and providing incentives for tourist-oriented businesses. The study concludes that community integration and heritage  conservation are context-specific and require coordination between authorities and other stakeholders for future issues.