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Small Historic Town as an Object of Cultural Heritage

The uniqueness of a historic town lies in its ancient origin (the middle of the 18th century and earlier); in the preserved historical, cultural and architectural environment; in the relationship of the town with significant historical events of the country; in the traditional folk crafts and arts that exist to the present time. It is positioned as a unique heritage site containing the main socio-cultural characteristics of the nation.Since the 1980s, some authors’ works have been attempting to scientifically substantiate the phenomenon of small historic town as a potential of cultural heritage in the context of its socio-cultural significance for the state, society and local community, with its advantages and problems.The purpose of this study is to show the potential of small historic town in the state cultural policy implementation. An analysis of various scientific approaches to the content of the concept of “historic town” is presented. The terminological chain “cultural resource”, “cultural resource of economic activity” and “object of historical and cultural heritage” is also included in the context of the article.The importance of historic towns in the training, education and enlightenment of citizens is invaluable. Scientifically based conclusions and official documents state that the majority of small historic towns cannot solve the accumulated problems on their own. A significant number of historical and cultural monuments require restoration.The inclusion of the potential of small historic town into the socio-cultural space should be carried out on the basis of programs of heritage preservation, development of tourism, folk arts and crafts, publication of the results of historical and cultural studies, creation of a complex of scientific documentaries and TV programs.The experience of Great Britain in protection of cultural heritage is considered.The article analyzes the Russian legislative acts over the past 50 years in relation to architectural monuments, historic towns and settlements. The author focuses on the recent evolution of approaches to the management of historical and cultural heritage of Russia.The obtained data demonstrate that regional executive authorities can become the coordinators of activities in the field of cultural heritage protection and tourism; and local authorities can be the organizers.