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Saxony-Anhalt Parliament Approves Law for Dessau-Wörlitz Cultural Foundation
Table of Contents
- 1. Saxony-Anhalt Parliament Approves Law for Dessau-Wörlitz Cultural Foundation
- 2. How dose the revised governance structure of the Kulturstiftung Dessau-Wörlitz aim to improve accountability?
- 3. Landtag Enacts Legislation for Kulturstiftung Dessau-Wörlitz Cultural Foundation
- 4. Strengthening Legal Foundations for a UNESCO World Heritage Site
- 5. Key Provisions of the New Legislation
- 6. Impact on the Dessau-Wörlitz Garden Realm
- 7. Benefits for Cultural Heritage in Saxony-Anhalt
- 8. Practical Implications for Visitors and Stakeholders
Magdeburg, Germany – The state parliament of Saxony-Anhalt has officially approved legislation governing the Dessau-Wörlitz Cultural Foundation (KSDW-G LSA). This marks the first time the legal basis for the foundation, responsible for the UNESCO World Heritage Site, has been firmly established by state law.
Culture Minister Rainer Robra expressed his gratitude to parliament members for their broad support, stating that their decision reinforces the commitment to preserving and developing the Garden Realm of Dessau-Wörlitz. Praising the site’s unique combination of culture, nature, and education, Robra assured stakeholders that the new law will provide the foundation with a sustainable framework to secure this legacy for future generations.
The legislation updates existing statutes, clarifying the foundation’s responsibilities related to its UNESCO World Heritage designation and streamlining the appointment and composition of its board of trustees. it also addresses the formal transfer of property from state ownership to the foundation’s assets, which includes landmark locations like Großkühnau Church, integral to the UNESCO-protected garden ensemble.
Furthermore, the law revises the structure of the foundation’s committee, expanding its membership to include two members of the state parliament.
This legal framework is expected to solidify the foundation’s operational stability and aid in the long-term preservation of this important cultural landmark.
Key Details:
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Law | Dessau-Wörlitz Cultural Foundation Law (KSDW-G LSA) |
| Purpose | To legally formalize and support the operation of the Foundation and its UNESCO World Heritage Site. |
| Key Changes | Updated statutes, clarified UNESCO responsibilities, streamlined board of trustees appointment, formalized property transfer, expanded committee membership. |
| Location | Saxony-Anhalt, Germany |
did You Know? The Garden Realm of Dessau-Wörlitz is one of the largest and most outstanding examples of garden design in Germany, influenced by the English landscape garden style.
Pro Tip: Planning a visit? Check the official Dessau-Wörlitz cultural Foundation website for guided tours and event schedules to maximize your experience.
What aspects of the Garden Realm of Dessau-Wörlitz do you find most compelling? How will this new legislation impact future preservation efforts?
How dose the revised governance structure of the Kulturstiftung Dessau-Wörlitz aim to improve accountability?
Landtag Enacts Legislation for Kulturstiftung Dessau-Wörlitz Cultural Foundation
Strengthening Legal Foundations for a UNESCO World Heritage Site
On august 24, 2025, the Landtag of Saxony-anhalt passed landmark legislation designed to bolster the legal framework and long-term sustainability of the Kulturstiftung Dessau-Wörlitz (Dessau-Wörlitz Cultural Foundation). This pivotal decision impacts the preservation and promotion of one of Germany’s most significant cultural landscapes – a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its unique garden realm. The new law addresses critical areas including governance, financial stability, and the foundation’s mandate for conservation and public access.
Key Provisions of the New Legislation
The enacted legislation introduces several key changes impacting the operation and future of the Kulturstiftung Dessau-Wörlitz. These include:
Revised Governance Structure: The law clarifies the roles and responsibilities of the foundation’s board of trustees, ensuring greater transparency and accountability in decision-making. This includes updated guidelines for the selection of board members,prioritizing expertise in cultural heritage management,finance,and public governance.
Enhanced financial Security: A significant component of the legislation focuses on securing the foundation’s financial future. This involves establishing a dedicated endowment fund, increasing state funding commitments, and exploring diversified revenue streams, such as strategic partnerships and targeted fundraising campaigns. The aim is to reduce reliance on short-term grants and ensure consistent funding for long-term preservation projects.
Expanded Mandate for Digitalization: Recognizing the importance of accessibility and innovation, the legislation explicitly expands the foundation’s mandate to include the digitalization of its collections and the development of digital cultural experiences. This encompasses creating virtual tours, online exhibitions, and interactive educational resources.
Clarification of Conservation Responsibilities: The law reinforces the foundation’s responsibility for the ongoing conservation and restoration of the Dessau-Wörlitz garden realm,including its historic buildings,landscapes,and art collections. it outlines specific procedures for assessing conservation needs, prioritizing projects, and ensuring adherence to international conservation standards.
Increased Public Engagement: The legislation emphasizes the importance of public engagement and access to the cultural heritage of Dessau-Wörlitz. It encourages the foundation to develop innovative programs and initiatives that cater to diverse audiences, including educational workshops, guided tours, and community events.
Impact on the Dessau-Wörlitz Garden Realm
The Dessau-Wörlitz Garden Realm, a masterpiece of landscape design from the 18th and 19th centuries, encompasses a vast area of parks, gardens, and architectural monuments. The new legislation directly benefits this unique cultural landscape in several ways:
Preservation of Historic Structures: Increased funding will facilitate the ongoing restoration of iconic structures like the Wörlitz Castle, the Georgium, and the numerous pavilions and temples scattered throughout the park.
Landscape Management & Biodiversity: The legislation supports enduring landscape management practices aimed at preserving the ecological integrity of the garden realm and promoting biodiversity. This includes initiatives to protect endangered plant and animal species.
Research & Documentation: The law encourages continued research and documentation of the garden realm’s history, art, and architecture, contributing to a deeper understanding of its cultural significance.
Tourism & Regional development: By strengthening the foundation’s capacity to manage and promote the garden realm, the legislation is expected to boost tourism and contribute to regional economic development. The area attracts significant numbers of visitors annually, generating revenue for local businesses and supporting employment.
Benefits for Cultural Heritage in Saxony-Anhalt
The positive effects of this legislation extend beyond the immediate boundaries of the Dessau-Wörlitz Cultural Foundation. It sets a precedent for strengthening the legal and financial foundations of other cultural institutions in Saxony-Anhalt.
Model for Foundation Governance: The revised governance structure adopted by the Kulturstiftung Dessau-Wörlitz can serve as a model for other foundations in the state, promoting best practices in transparency and accountability.
Increased Investment in Cultural Heritage: The increased state funding commitments demonstrate a strong commitment to preserving and promoting Saxony-Anhalt’s rich cultural heritage.
Enhanced Regional Identity: The Dessau-Wörlitz Garden realm is a key element of saxony-Anhalt’s regional identity. Investing in its preservation helps to strengthen the state’s cultural profile and attract visitors from around the world.
Practical Implications for Visitors and Stakeholders
Visitors to the Dessau-Wörlitz Garden Realm can expect to see continued improvements in the quality of visitor services, enhanced accessibility, and a wider range of cultural experiences. Stakeholders, including local communities, businesses, and researchers, will benefit from increased opportunities for collaboration and engagement with the foundation.
Improved Visitor Infrastructure: Planned investments in visitor infrastructure will enhance the overall experience, including improved signage, parking facilities, and accessibility for people with disabilities.
Expanded Educational Programs: The foundation will continue to develop and expand its educational programs, offering a variety of learning opportunities for schools, families, and individuals.
* Increased Collaboration with Local Communities: The legislation encourages the foundation to work closely with local communities to develop initiatives that benefit both the cultural heritage of
