Stones of the Raj: The Hybrid Colonial Architecture of Allahabad
Urban heritage represents a dynamic link between the past and the present, shaping the character and identity of cities across the globe. As urbanization accelerates and cities evolve into major economic, social, and cultural centers, the urgency to safeguard both tangible and intangible heritage has intensified. Urban heritage encompasses far more than historic buildings or monuments—it is a living mosaic of cultural memory, spatial patterns, social practices, and historical narratives that collectively define urban identity (Bandarin & van Oers, 2012). The conservation and management of this heritage are essential not only for sustainable urban development but also for reinforcing community identity and enhancing cultural tourism (UNESCO, 2016). However, this need is increasingly challenged by the pressures of rapid urban growth, inadequate policy implementation, socio-economic transformations, and environmental vulnerabilities (Evans, 2002). The paper explores the core concept of heritage and its unique manifestation within urban contexts. It examines the various typologies of urban heritage, the contemporary challenges it faces, and the mechanisms by which it is identified, preserved, and integrated into urban planning and policy. The paper examines the same by conducting primary surveys and documentation of British Raj buildings of the city Allahabad.
Keywords: Heritage, culture, history, Allahabad.
