patan durbar square monument zone: nepal - (mission...
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Restricted Technical Report RO/1981-1983/4/7.6/04 NEPAL
International action contributing to activities of M e m b e r States for the preservation and presentation of cultural property
Patan Durbar Square Monument Zone
by Eduard F. Sekler
Serial No. FMR/CLT/CH/85/169
United Nations Educational, J ' Scientific and = = • Cultural Organization
Paris, 1985
N E P A L
PATÁN DURBAR SQUARE MONUMENT ZONE
by Eduard F. Sekler
Report prepared for the Government of the Kingdom of Nepal by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (Unesco)
U N E S C O
Technical Report RP/1981-1983/4/7.6/04 FMR/CLT/CH/85/169(Sekler) 2 December 1985
© Unesco 1985 Printed in France
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Table of Contents
Page
Preface (iii)
I - INTRODUCTION 1
Definition of objective 1 Patan Durbar Square as a Monument Zone in the World Heritage List 2
II - MAIN FINDINGS AND CONCLUSIONS 3
Historical and urbanistic context 4 Land use, traffic and ownership 5 Urbanistic character and vistas 6 Classification and condition of repair 7 Topical issues 9
III - RECOMMENDATIONS 11
Legal and administrative implementation 14
APPENDICES
1. Patan Durbar Square: some building dates 17 2. Extract from Master Plan for the
Conservation of the Cultural Heritage in the Kathmandu Valley 18
ILLUSTRATIONS
1. Axonometrie bird's-eye view of Patan Durbar Square 20
2. Map with delineation of the area inscribed in the World Heritage List as Patan Durbar Square Monument Zone (PDSMZ) 21
3. PDSMZ; plan of roofscape, indicating condition of monuments 22
4. Patan Durbar Square; elevation of temples facing the palace with recently built or remodelled, disturbing buildings in the background 23
5. Patan Durbar Square, West elevation of palace 24
6. Patan Durbar Square, view South between Biswanath (left) and Krishna Mandir (right) toward Degu Tale 25
7. PDSMZ; plan with preliminary classification of monuments according to artistic and/or historic significance 26
8. Dilapidated Patis SE of the MZ 27
9. Small 17th Century Narayan Temple at Kulim, N of the MZ, threatening ruin 28
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10. View from Haka Tole NW past Khot Ghar and Law Court, with the temple towers and a recent incongruous tall building in the background 29
11. Worship at the Sanctuary of Bhimsen in the NW portion of the Khot Ghar; the dance platform is visible in the foreground 30
12. Offerings at the Bhimsen Sanctuary in the NW portion of the Khot Ghar 31
13. The proposed new office building, intended to replace the historic Khot Ghar 32
14. Disturbing electric installation in front of Krishna Temple at Swatha, in the MZ 33
15. Disturbing electric installation next to shrine SE of the MZ 34
16. Recently constructed incompatible concrete building in Kwalakhu, next to Ganesh Temple and near the entrance to the Golden Temple, at the NW corner of the MZ 35
Illustration credits: figs. 11,12 courtesy of Kirti M. Joshi, fig. 13, Buddhi R. Bajracharya; all other illustrations are by the author.
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Preface
"Isn't it like a piece of heaven?" In these words the poet Kunu Sharma described Patan Durbar Square in A.D. 1652 (*), and ever since that time writers have not tired of praising this remarkable historic urban space where more than 30 individual monuments are clustered in a comparatively small area (roughly 160m by 70m at its widest), with another 30 monuments in the immediate vicinity. The Durbar Square, so rich in cultural property, is at the same time the functioning core of a city in the process of ever more rapid change and modernization. This lends strong urgency to the needs of the Durbar Square area and to the topic of this report. The Master Plan for the Conservation of the Cultural Heritage in the Kathmandu Valley of 1977 recommended for Patan a comprehensive urbanistic conservation study and master plan, as well as detailed studies and plans for the monument zones as a pre-condition for the successful implementation of its recommendations. It also recommended the designation of Patan Durbar Square as a Monument Zone because the Square is outstanding among its peers in the Kathmandu Valley, and ranks with the best existing historic urban spaces in the world. Accordingly, it deserves a particularly careful urbanistic and preservation treatment, with special care taken to delineate this Monument Zone broadly enough, so as to be able to avoid future disturbing encroachments in the neighbourhood. But as yet no comprehensive urbanistic conservation study (**) and master plan for the whole of Patan exist. It would be highly desirable to prepare them within the existing organizational and institutional framework for historic conservation and town planning in the Kathmandu Valley. The preservation and rehabilitation of Patan Durbar Square will be successful and meaningful only if it is integrated in the wider context of planning, infrastructural improvement, and conservation for the whole city and region of Patan, and for the entire Kathmandu Valley.
The Patan Durbar Square Monument Zone, upon request by H.M. Government, is included in the World Heritage List, with all the advantages and obligations such a listing entails.
(*) M.S. Slusser, Nepal Mándala, Princeton 1982, 204
(**) A pilot urbanistic conservation study for the Patan Durbar Square Monument Zone entitled "Proposal for the Urbanistic Conservation of Patan (Lalitpyr) Durbar, Square as a Monument Zone", Cambridge,. Mass. (Harvard Graduate School of Design Publication Series No. A-7901), 1980 was submitted by the author in 1979 for consideration by- the concerned authorities of H.M. Government* It forms the basis of the present report.
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- INTRODUCTION
1. The mission described in the present report was carried out from 11 - 24 January 1984 at the request of the Government of Nepal, and was funded by Unesco under its Regular Programme for 1981-1983.
2. The purpose of the mission was:
"In cooperation with the concerned authorities of the Government of Nepal, and within the framework of the International Campaign: The Master Plan for the Preservation of the Cultural Heritage in the Kathmandu Valley,
ta) to assess the problems relating to preservation, restoration, and presentation of Patan Durbar Square ,-
(b) to assist the Nepalese Government authorities in reviewing and finalizing a programme for its rehabilitation and landscaping."
Definition of objective
3. The objective is to increase the cultural, social and economic benefits that can accrue from the historic preservation, restoration, and rehabilitation, as well as from the proper landscaping and presentation of Patan Durbar Square and its surroundings. To increase the cultural and social as well as the economic benefits, means to avoid the destruction of traditional visual order, harmony and beauty, while at the same time improving material prosperity; there is no good reason why ugliness and chaos in the physical environment should have to be the price paid for economic well-being. Moreover, experience has shown that, in the long run, uncontrolled, disorderly development, based purely on individual self-interest, is invariably costly to the community which eventually has to provide services and remedy the resulting ills such as overcrowding and pollution. In addition, in a tourism-oriented economy as that of the Kathmandu Valley, amenity brings very tangible material benefits. Equally important, however, are the cultural and social benefits the Durbar Square with its monuments, festivals and marketing activities provides for the population.
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Patán Durbar Square as a Monument Zone in the World Heritage List
4. A Monument Zone (MZ) is a defined topographical area rich in individual monuments (*) or important as a connective setting for such monuments and of special value because of its interest from any or several of the following points of view: scientific, cultural, aesthetic, archaeological, historical, anthropological, and ethnological. A MZ may also be characterized by such qualities as homogeneity of building type, remarkable settlement pattern and/or setting in the landscape.
5. According the the World Heritage Convention of 1972 to which Nepal is a State Party, only such cultural properties are included that are deemed to be of outstanding universal value; this means theymust meet certain stringent criteria and the test of authenticity in design, materials, workmanship or setting. Testimony from many experts is sufficient evidence for the outstanding value of Patan Durbar Square. It has been called "a marvel beyond the power of words to tell" (Sylvain Levi) and, according to Perceval Landon, when compared to the Durbar Squares of Kathmandu and Bhaktapur, it "....will probably leave the deepest and most lasting impression upon ... memory, (at*) In Wolfgang Korn's opinion, "of the three palace squares, this is the best preserved, retaining most of its original form". (***). According to The Protective Inventory 1,230 "this square constitutes perhaps the most spectacular example of Newar architecture within any urban context." (****).
(*) The following definition is taken from the Master Plan for the Conservation of the Cultural Heritage inthe Kathmandu Valley, Paris,Unesco 1977, XI/2a. The term "Monument" for the purpose of this document means not only any immovable object protected under the Ancient Monuments Preservation Act 1956 but also any other immovable natural or man made object such as "any artificial or partly artifical building, architectural work, work of monumental carving, sculpture or painting, including cave dwellings and inscriptions, whether above or below the surface of the ground and affixed to it or not, which is of archaeological, historical, artistic, or scientific importance and which is at least 100 years old or has been declared a 'Monument' by notification of His Majesty's Government in the Nepal Gazette. The term 'Monument' includes the site of any such building". "
(**) Perceval Landon, Nepal, London 1928, I, 208
(***) Wolfgang Korn, The Traditional Architecture of the Kathmandu Valley, Kathmandu 1976, 54
(****) Kathmandu Valley, The Preservation of Physical Environment and Cultural Heritage, Protective Inventory, 2 vols., Vienna 1975
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6. A cultural property can be excluded from the World Heritage List ("delisted") if:
(a) it has deteriorated to the degree of losing the characteristics that determined its inclusion in the World Heritage List;
(b) its intrinsic qualities were already threatened by the action of man, at the time when it was nominated ... and required corrective measures were not taken within a reasonable period of time.
7. The operational guidelines for the implementation of the World Heritage Convention stipulate the following procedure for the delineation of the area of a cultural property:
"Whenever necessary for the proper conservation of a cultural or natural property nominated, an adequate 'buffer zone* around a property should be foreseen and should be afforded the necessary protection. A buffer zone can be defined as an area surrounding the property which has an essential influence on the physical state of the property and/or the way in which the property is perceived; the area constituting the buffer zone should be determined in each case through technical studies. Details on the size and characteristics of a buffer zone should be provided in the nomination file relating to the property in question."
MAIN FINDINGS AND CONCLUSIONS
8. The Durbar Square is embedded in a predominantly residential area of considerable homogeneity that forms a neutral background for the Square with its palace and temples. The characteristic, strong effect of the Durbar Square owes much to this contrast, and it would not be enough to preserve and restore the monuments if at the same time one did not also assure that the scale and character of the approaches and surroundings remain preserved. Some recent ill-conceived tall buildings in the immediate vicinity of the Durbar Square demonstrate clearly how much the monuments suffer from competing high structures nearby. Accordingly, it was necessary to delineate the MZ for the purpose of inclusion in the World Heritage List in such a manner that not only the important monuments but also their field of view and contrasting neutral background should be included to a sufficient degree. The boundary of the Monument Zone, therefore, has been placed approximately one block's depth (roughly 100m) away from the Durbar Square. Measured along the two intersecting main roads the maximal extension of the Monument Zone is roughly 4l0m by 425m. (Figure 2)
9. When the boundary of the MZ runs in the middle of a street or other public open space, the properties on both sides of the street or on all sides of the public open space for legal and administrative purposes are to be considered as parts of the MZ. Otherwise some very disturbing buildings and/or signs could be placed on locations exactly opposite protected buildings.
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Patán Durbar Square in its historical and urbanistic context
10. No complete history of either Patan or Durbar Square exists (*), and much research and archaeological exploration will be necessary before the task can be undertaken with confidence. It would be desirable to establish building dates as closely as possible for all buildings in the MZ, and to present this information graphically in a map. For the time being, however, it is only possible to give a list of dates for some of the more important monuments, and to mention some dates of rebuilding (notably after the great earthquake of 1934) and restoration. As will become apparent, the palace and most of the important monuments date from the 17th Century A.D., (See Appendix 1) but they may have replaced earlier structures, as is certainly the case with one of the Chowks that took the place of an earlier monastic building on the site.
11. From the point of view of historic preservation, dates and information about later changes are as important as original building dates. Eventually a set of maps and views should be prepared that illustrates changes over time in the MZ . Such a presentation would have to be based on as complete as possible a collection of old views, and on an analysis of evidence from texts and from the buildings themselves, once these have been carefully studied and recorded in detail in the framework of a scientific inventory of the MZ. Such an inventory should be drawn up as soon as possible.
12. Even a preliminary scanning of such sources of information as the drawings by Oldfield (1855) and old photographs of different dates, indicates how some aspects of the Durbar Square have changed significantly. Among others the following alterations may be noted: a small raised garden with ungainly fences was arranged in the middle of the Square; the crowning towers and the wooden loggia atop the Museum (Mani Keshar Narayan Chowk) were changed in rebuilding; one of the towers of the palace complex was not rebuilt after the earthquake (at*) ; the roof turret above the south wing of Mul Chowk was changed in rebuilding from an octagon in the plan to a simple square(**t); a recent paving in brick of the whole Square altered the level, colours and textures of the floor, and obliterated some formerly marked paths; several houses along and near the Square were remodelled or rebuilt with greatly increased heights, and in forms that strongly clash with the traditional ones. (Figures 4,10).
(*) The most reliable historical account is given by M. Slusser op cit 95-100, 199-204; for an initial historical analysis of the town plan see N. Gutschow, Stadtraum und Ritual der newarischen Städte im Kathmandu Tal, Stuttgart 1982, 148ff.
(**) This was discovered by Patrick Troch
(***) For an illustration of the octagonal turret see P. Landon, Nepal, London 1928, I, 213
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Urbanistic context
13. The historic conservation of the MZ must enhance the life of the population by making the area a place that functions better and is more pleasant to live and work in. It must do so in the larger context of the Kathmandu Valley as an economic, social and cultural unit affected by strong forces of change. Population growth and urbanization are both on the increase which, in turn, brings about a boom in building activity and real estate development.
14. In the decade between 1971 and 1981 the population of the Kathmandu Valley increased by 23.9% from 618,900 to 766,820 inhabitants. In a more dramatic fashion tourist arrivals increased by 206% between 1971 and 1981, from ca. 53,000 to ca. 162,000. In Patan the population increased at a greater rate than in the Kathmandu Valley as a whole, from ca. 60,000 in 1971 by 31.6% to ca. 79,000 in 1981; during approximately the same period the number of new buildings per year increased by 124% from 50 to 112, building costs rose by 150%, and the price of land by 900% (from Rs 15,000/ropani to RS 150,OOO/ropani). The number of motorcycle registrations per year increased by 273% from 150 to 560.(*)
15. For the MZ all of this indicates a continued significant increase of development pressure and intensity of utilization. As a consequence a comparable increase of direct and indirect damage to the historic monuments and their setting may be expected in the coming years, unless effective remedial measures are taken very soon. More vehicular traffic will bring more pollution and vibrations damaging the historic buildings and sculptures, and the need for more accommodation will increase the temptation to put up more and more tall buildings in close proximity to the Durbar Square whose monuments will thus be dwarfed.
16. While large-scale remedial measures can only happen in the framework of overall historic conservation planning and town planning for the Kathmandu valley, it must be stressed that a great deal can be done by means of specific localized intervention and control which applies to the MZ only. Such local action, dealing with a small area only, is feasible immediately because it demands a comparatively minor administrative and financial commitment compared to the effort needed to make the administrative and financial means available for the whole Kathmandu Valley. By means of timely, forceful localized action, a lot of eventually irreparable damage to the MZ can still be avoided.
Land use, traffic and ownership
17. Institutional, religious, commercial, residential and recreational use are all found within the MZ and could be analyzed and mapped in detail on the basis of appropriate surveys,
(*) Statistics courtesy of Mr. Shankar Man Pradhan, Kathmandu Valley Town Planning Team.
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Well-defined territorial domains for certain commercial activities would be easily recognized: areas where, by tradition the workers in brass and copper, the textile merchants, the local health practitioners, and many others are found. There is no reason why such traditional "use zoning" should not be kept for the future. Tourist shops represent a well-defined group of comparatively recent date, clustered along the W-side of the Square and to the NW of it along the habitual tourist route leading to the Golden Temple. Despite the well known economic benefits tourism brings, it would be preferable not to have tourist shops become predominant to the exclusion of most others. If this were to happen it would entail a significant loss of vitality for the Square and lend it an air of artificiality. It would also make it monofunctional and seasonal, and consequently increase its economic vulnerability.
18. As it is, a lively set of activities by people of all age-groups is generated by shops and stalls, the sanctuaries, the tourist attractions, the public fountain, and such public buildings as the city hall, law court, post office, police station, and schools. This rich variety should be kept, and the pedestrian traffic it generates should be a chief consideration in any planning for the restoration and presentation of the Square. The Durbar Square at all times is not only a place for the exchange of goods and labour but equally a cultural centre of the most momentous significance: a place where ritual and commemoration find expression in numerous works of art. One of the foremost aims of historic conservation must be to keep and enhance it as such, and thus to contribute as much to the spiritual and social well-being of the people as to their economic prosperity.
19. It is obvious that the ownership of land and buildings may greatly affect historic conservation measures. Implementation tends to be easier for public buildings than for those in private hands. Fortunately in the Durbar Square the majority of important monuments are in some kind of public ownership. For purposes of historic conservation planning, a map with complete ownership data would be a most useful tool. Whenever it is possible for H.M. Government to acquire property in the MZ, this should be done since it will facilitate the conservation and rehabilitation of the area.
Urbanistic character and vistas
20. The tall buildings of the Durbar Square are important landmarks in the city. Seen from a distance, the many tiered temple roofs of the Square stand out against the sky and indicate the centre of the city. This precious effect will be lost if many tall houses or office buildings are permitted to spring up in the vicinity of the centre. Once one has entered the built-up area of the city, one loses sight of the high buildings of the Durbar Square until one comes close to them and they emerge in powerful contrast to the surrounding much lower houses of Mamgah Toi. At the same time the Square not only contrasts
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through the height of its buildings but also spatially; except for the main NW-SE road (width: ca. 10m) all approach roads and lanes are narrow, between 3.5 and 6.0m. As a consequence the open areas of the Square appear strikingly spacious despite modest actual dimensions.
21. The central portion of the MZ consists of three related main spaces; one, at the North, surrounds Manga Hiti; one, extending roughly N-S, is defined by the palace front and the temples that stand across from the palace; the third, extending NW-SE is defined by the building of the law court and the adjoining long, low structure of the Khot Ghar on one side, and by the houses that line the other side. The second and third spaces, in the direction of their longer axes, correspond to the directions of Patan's two historic main roads that intersect roughly in the middle of the MZ . Just as the Durbar Square proper in front of the palace urbanistically is closely linked to the open area at its N-end where Manga Hiti is located, so it relates at its S-end to the open area in front of the Khot Ghar. Both the northern and southern open areas supplement the central portion in important ways - functionally and spatially. It is, of course, characteristic for urban spaces that they are never experienced in isolation, but in a larger spatial and operational context. The triad of spaces that together form the core of the MZ are no exception, and for purposes of conservation, rehabilitation and landscaping are to be treated as a unit: the same standards of excellence must be applied to all three.
22. The Durbar Square is very consistent in the scale of its spaces and volumes; until recently all non-monumental buildings and their scale-giving elements such as windows and doors were modestly dimensioned within a limited range of traditional quasi-standardized dimensions. Recent building activity disrupted the old, delicate coherence of the urban fabric by the introduction of large, non-traditional units of design and inappropriate proportions and materials. (Figures 4,10)
23. The arrangement of individual buildings, the way they are aligned, staggered, and juxtaposed, is extremely subtle and creates a number of very impressive and often surprising vistas. Great care should be taken to preserve such vistas (Figure 6) and not to spoil them by injudiciously placed new buildings and additions such as ugly stalls or booths, large signs and advertisements, and obtrusive electric installations. At present spatial closure and articulation are least successful at the S-end of the Square, past the Krishna (Gopinath) temple and in the vicinity of the city hall; the final arrangement of 'this area and of the adjacent "Archaeological Garden" would deserve the most careful study and design.
Classification (plan 12878/5) and condition of repair (Figures 3,7)
24. For the Patan Durbar Square MZ a preliminary classification according to artistic and/or historic significance has been undertaken for all buildings in the Square and along the streets;
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the interiors of building blocks should be equally classified. Naturally the monuments of greatest artistic and/or historic significance are concentrated at the Durbar Square itself; they are accompanied by residential buildings which form a positive background that must be kept intact and therefore deserves special protection. For a few comparatively recent buildings of no architectural merit the option is left open to change or replace them should the need occur. Other more disturbing recent buildings and improper additions are recommended for remedial change.
25. Among the monuments of great significance a further listing according to priority for restoration might be established by using such criteria as age, survival of ancient rather than rebuilt elements, survival of original polychromy, uniqueness or rarity as a building and/or iconographie type, artistic quality, present state of repair (threat of ruin), and vulnerability. In order to carry through such a listing, a complete and accurate detailed survey as recommended above (paragraph 11) is needed.
26. As the result of a preliminary survey, the condition of repair was determined for the most important buildings of the Durbar Square. Following the scheme established in the Master Plan, a distinction was made between the structural condition and that of carved decoration. Symbols on plan 12878/6 indicate whether the structure needs considerable, some or minor replacement, and as far as carving/cleaning is concerned, whether comprehensive or partial treatment is needed. (Figure 3)
27. The Unesco Publication, J. Sanday, Kathmandu Valley, Nepalese Historic Monuments in Need of Preservation, ISBN 92-3-101-992-9 Paris 1982, for the MZ, enumerates the following (numbers in parentheses refer to plan 12878/6): Krishna Mandir (14), Bishwanath (8), Manga Hiti (11), Ganesh (5), Bhimsen (3), Hari Shankar (22), Narsingha (20), Narayan (19), Char Narayan (17), Bhai Dega (27), Lakshmi Narayan (33), Krishna (Gopinath) (30), Degu Tale (23), Mani Keshav Narayan Chowk (15), Sundari Chowk (31), Lohan Hiti (32), Mul Chowk (25), Taleju (24). Among these the most endangered monuments seem to be the temples of Narsingha (20) and Narayan (19). In addition the small Patal Pokhari pavilion (7) is half in ruin and the two mandapas (9,10) urgently need attention. With aid from the Austrian Government restoration work has begun at Mani Keshav Narayan Chowk (15), but the building to the East of it, last used as a primary school, is still in very bad condition and, in parts, threatens collapse.
28. Among the most obvious reasons for the decay of buildings in the MZ are: neglect of timely maintenance and cessation of proper utilization; insufficient foundations and masonry bond; weakening of construction through heavy vehicular traffic nearby and/or seismic shocks; lack of damp-proofing, and leaking roofs that contribute to the spread of rot in timber; inappropriate utilization and adaptations.
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29. Sufficient attention must be paid not only to the state of major monuments but also to that of minor ones - especially pithas that are set inconspicuously in the ground but are of considerable ritual (hence social) significance - and to preventive maintenance as well as to cleanliness in general. Finally, several important historic buildings close to the MZ , though outside the Durbar Square area proper, are in a sad state of neglect and decay, and should receive at least enough attention to prevent complete collapse. (Figures 8,9)
Topical issues
30. Despite individual efforts of cleaning, maintenance, and restoration by the Archaeology Department, the overall state of the MZ is one of steady deterioration from the point of view of cultural heritage conservation. The reasons for this depressing development are easily traced; they mainly are consequences of the demographic, economic, and social changes indicated in paragraphs 13 - 15, and of slow institutional and administrative response to these changes.
31. As already mentioned, the most disturbing feature which threatens to destroy the monumental effect of the Durbar Square is the incongruous new buildings. By their often excessive height they inappropriately compete with the temple towers, by their materials and forms they clash with the historic buildings and visually overpower them, destroying the delicate sense of scale characteristic of the old work. (Figures 4,10)
32. A case in point is a recent proposal for a new three-storey office building in place of the historic Khot Ghar. How important this former guard building is for the total experience of the Durbar Square, is best appreciated when approaching through Haka Tole on the south-east road. Emerging from the comparatively dark and narrow road one is struck forecefully by the contrast of the well lit, ample expanse of space in front of the Khot Ghar, beyond which the multi-tiered towers of the palace stand out against the sky as dramatic landmarks. (Figure 10) Even if the Khot Ghar were not of historical significance, its urbanistic significance alone would preclude any changes of its characteristic features. It is, however, of historical and cultural significance as well, because of its age and because of religious and cultural traditions inseparably linked with it. In its north-west end the sanctuary of the Dolkha Bhimsen is located where worship is performed at regular intervals. In front, a low platform is a reminder that here every twelve years* dances are performed, while every year the coming of spring is greeted by a musical performance. (Figures 11,12) If one properly understands conservation of cultural heritage as referring to both the tangible and intangible heritage, to buildings as well as to dances, rituals and time-honoured usages, it will be clear why disturbing the Khot Ghar should be out of the question.
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33. The recent proposal taller building of entir pletely disregarded all new building would entai b) destruction of a most tion of the character of to the Durbar Square and traditions. In addition already existing traffic intended to house office amount of new vehicular
to replace the Khot Ghar with a much ely unsuitable modernistic design com-these considerations. (Figure 13) The 1 a) destruction of a historic monument, important urbanistic vista, c)destruc-an urban space that is directly related d) disruption of several cultural , the new building would add to the and parking problems because it is
s which would generate a considerable traffic.
34. All this by itself would be reason enough to reject the proposed new building, but it must also be pointed out that its construction would seriously jeopardize the status of the Patan Durbar Square MZ as one of the urban complexes listed in the World Heritage List, and removal from the list may mean the loss of much needed funding from the World Heritage Fund. De-listing would also make a very bad impression on potential donors of funds on a bi-lateral basis.
3-5. Since, however, genuine needs for office space certainly should be fulfilled, another site should be found to accommodate the offices proposed in the new building. With the help of the competent town planning authorities a suitable site should be selected, possibly on the unbuilt land on the road to Pulchok, only some 800m distant from the MZ and incomparably preferable because of easy access, availability of sufficient parking, and the possibility of later enlargement. (*)
36. The disturbing and destructive effect of motor traffic in historic settings is well known. So far a traffic plan for the whole of Patan, with pedestrianization of the Durbar Square as an integral part, is lacking. Yet there can be no doubt that high priority should be given to making the Durbar Square a pedestrian zone, closed by bollards and chains at its ends. Parking for visitors to the Square can be found some distance away, perhaps some 75m further South in an area East of the main road. other famous historic sites in the world, such as the Athenian Acropolis, or the fortress at Mycenae, can only be visited by walking considerable distances from the tourist parking area.
(*) The only site in the Khot Ghar area that could be studied for its possible suitability as a site for a new building, is the one at the SE end of the Khot Ghar. It is at present occupied by some small, temporary shops which form a flimsy one-storey building at right angles to the Khot Ghar. A new building in roughly this location would have to be much smaller and lower than what had been proposed as replacement of the Khot Ghar, and it would have to be designed by a competent architect in traditional form and materials, so as to form a handsome backdrop for the market square in front of it.
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37. Parking and traffic problems are not the only matters that need the coordination of efforts by several Government Departments. Recently, as part of the welcome effort to upgrade the infrastructure of the area, new installations for electricity and water supply have been put up, but, alas, in very awkward locations. (Figures 14,15) Visually and practically they interfere seriously with historic monuments, yet without additional cost they could have been easily located in better spots, if the efforts of everybody concerned had been coordinated in time.
38. Next to the patent lack of coordination among the various organizations responsible for planning and building in the MZ , the most serious drawback is the lack of proper design standards and planning controls, and of continuous vigilance and maintenance. In this manner it happened that at one corner of the MZ , next to the famed Golden Temple, an absolutely incongruous new reinforced concrete structure was erected which in its size, form and material mocks all efforts at historic conservation. (Figure 16).
39. Judging from recent occurrences, the prevention of vandalism including the defacing of monuments by writing and posting bills on them, and the control of disturbing signs and posters would also have to be part of a desirable programme of continued vigilance and preventive maintenance.
Ill - RECOMMENDATIONS
40. Detailed design standards comparable to those prepared for Bhaktapur but adjusted to the local conditions of Patan should be adopted after they have been studied by the competent authority. Chief among the points to be covered are the following,
Height and bulk of buil'dings, ratio of plot size to building size
41. The average cornice height of the prevailing three-storeyed buildings in the MZ is 7.5m; this corresponds to three floors of 2.40m (floor to floor) each, plus a base of 0.30m. A similar arrangement should remain the rule in the MZ except that the floor height may be increased for public buildings and very slightly increased for private buildings. Around the Durbar Square no portion of any building s-hould be higher than lO.OOm above ground level.
42. Traditionally the houses in Patan are arranged along streets and around courtyards which provide light and air for rooms. If later additions encroach on the courtyards and these become too small, unsatisfactory conditions ensue. It should be recommended that not more than a certain percentage (50-60%) of a building plot may be built over.
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Bases or plinths
43. It is desirable that every new or remodelled building should have the traditional low, projecting plinth or base.
Roofs, roof-terraces and superelevations (attic storeys)
44. Following tradition, roofs should be double-pitched (occasionally hipped) without interruptions, at an inclination between 25 and 40 degrees, with the ridge parallel to the street, and with an overhang of at least 0.90m supported by struts at the level of the third floor ceiling.
45. Above this overhang there may be a roof terrace limited in extension and with a straight parapet. Superelevation above the roof overhang may be permitted in exceptional cases only when a similar attic storey exists in a neighboring building,and when it does not disrupt the homogeneity of the MZ. Flat roofs and stepped or ornamented roof parapets or gables should be strictly forbidden. Lean-to roofs are permissible where conditions dictate them.
Balconies and similar projections
46. Balconies and similar projections may be admissible if they are of limited size and occur on the third floor level, taking the place of the traditional inclined projecting window (Ga Jyha).
Materials
47. Roofs should be covered in tile,though in exceptional cases tile-coloured asbestos cement or corrugated metal painted in tile colour may be permitted. Walls should be in burnt brick or in brick covered by lime stucco; coatings in cement mortar should be forbidden. Exposed timber such as brackets, door and window frames, etc. should not be painted but treated with transparent preservatives. Concrete may be used structurally but should never be exposed to view on the outside of buildings. The plinth may be in stone, brick, or in concrete covered by any one of these traditional materials. Artifical stone is admissible if it resembles and is utilized in lieu of natural stone.
48. All paving of public areas including sidewalks shall be in the traditional materials of stone and brick. Asphalt should be avoided in the MZ.
Form, proportions, articulation
49. The traditional forms, proportions of façades and their openings, and habitual articulation of façades should be maintained and continued.(*) Suitable designs should be prepared to
(*) The design principles of traditional Newar architecture are most thoroughly discussed in R.O.A. Becker-Ritterspach, Gestaltungsprinzipien in der Newarischen Architektur, Hamburg,1982 Translation of this book, or of excerpts from it, is recommended.
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serve as models in all cases when^renovations, remodellings and new buildings are envisaged. These designs should deal with types and possible arrangements of windows, doors and shop-fronts, balconies, railings and other elements of a building, as well as with entire buildings that can serve as prototypes for housing and business needs.
Electric lights and telephone cables
50. Street lamps and private electric installations as well as telephone cables must be arranged so as not to disturb the visual harmony of the Durbar Square. In the Durbar Square proper, no overhead cables of any kind should be permitted. The question of lighting the historic buildings at night should be studied with the greatest possible caution. Any tall lampposts should be strictly avoided in the MZ .
Design review
51. No building, operation or placement of signs, advertisements, installations or other objects of any kind shall be permitted in the MZ without prior review and approval by the competent authority. If necessary, the reviewing authority shall suggest changes and assist in the preparation of suitable designs free-of-charge.
Award of merit
52. In order to encourage a high standard of design and execution in the MZ, the ompetent uthority should make yearly cash awards for the private restoration, remodelling, rebuilding, or new construction in the MZ that is considered best from the point of view of historic conservation. Small awards should also be used as incentives for the growing of flowers on balconies and in window boxes.
Maintenance and cleaning
53. Provision is needed for the continued maintenance and cleaning of the Durbar Square area. This implies facilities for solid waste disposal, and public latrines.
Layout and presentation
54. Any uses incompatible with the character of the palace buildings should be discontinued (relocation of the police station may be needed). In addition,it would be desirable to provide a pleasant place for tourists where they can rest for a while and obtain light refreshments without being bothered by vendors and beggars. Excessive presentation devices such as large billboards with maps, large identification plaques, garish signs etc. should be avoided. Instead,a small permanent
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exhibition about the MZ should be installed in one room of the museum, or in another room of the palace. Well-written leaflets in several languages with a map of the MZ and indications for self-guided tours could be sold or distributed at the same place.
Legal and administrative implementation
55. The success or failure of the Patan Durbar Square Monument Zone will depend entirely on the legal and administrative framework set up for implementing the recommendations for its preservation, restoration and presentation. Nepali legal and administrative experts will be needed to finalize this framework and to adapt the following suggestions to prevailing local usages. All arrangements should be as simple and straightforward as possible ,and avoid any duplication of responsibilities and ambiguities in the chain of authority. While a maximum of cooperation from everybody involved with aspects of the MZ is hoped for, it would be realistic to set up the competent authority in charge of the MZ with enough power to enforce its regulations without having to rely on voluntary cooperation and compliance.
56. The area inscribed as "Monument Zone" in the World Heritage List should be officially designated as"Monument Zone with Special Protection"in the Nepal Gazette. The detailed phrasing of the provisions for special protection will have to be worked out by a Nepali legal expert. An example of such provisions is given in the Master Plan Xl/12, paragraphs 45 through 51 (see Appendix 2 ) .
57. A competent authority should be appointed which will take over responsibility for the MZ. It might be called "Patan Durbar Square Monument Zone Commission" and consist of representatives of: the Department of Archaeology, the Kathmandu Valley Town Planning Team, the Guthi Samstan, the Lalitpur Nagar Panchayat (Patan Town Controller), the Electricity Board, the highway authority, the water and drainage authority, the Royal Nepal Academy, and an architect/urbanist "Conservator of the Monument Zone" whose special assignment is the Monument Zone; he would be the chairman and chief executive officer of the Commission and would have a budget, staff and office of his own, preferably in the MZ. He would have the continued assistance from various specialists available though the Department of Archaeology and the Kathmandu Town Planning Team. The Department of Archaeology, moreover, should be represented in the Kathmandu Valley Town Planning Team and in the Kathmandu. Valley Town Development Committee.
58. The responsibilities of the competent authority for the MZ (see paragraph 57) to be discharged through the Conservator of the MZ include: the continuation of necessary surveys and other studies and their mapping; preparation of a complete scientific inventory for the MZ; promulgation of official policies, regulations and design standards for the MZ; administrative supervision, coordination and continuous monitoring of
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preservation, maintenance and presentation activities in the MZ ; enforcement of regulations and design standards ; provision free-of-charge of advice and design review for people who wish to build, remodel, or restore in the MZ or to otherwise affect its appearance.
59. The Conservator should also bring about, or encourage the creation of a voluntary civic organization for the MZ headed by influential public leaders and local businessmen; the purpose of this organization will be to educate and inform the public about conservation policies in the MZ and to become a vehicle for the expression of public opinion about the MZ.
60- The following general policies are suggested for discussion and eventual adoption by the "Patan Durbar Square Monument Zone Commission" (cf. the above-mentioned recommendations):
i) Active maintenance including cleaning and repair of those features which give the area its special value.
ii) Advance planning and control of any foreseeable changes that are likely to affect the area, including new uses and constructions above and below ground.
iii) Restrictions regarding the use and exploitation of land and buildings. This includes the prohibition of motor vehicles in certain areas; the control of density, type, height and appearance of buildings and their placing and utilization; and the control of all elements of the physical environment other than buildings regarding their placement, size and appearance.
iv) Preservation of all buildings in their original appearance except for incongruous recent restorations and additions. Internal remodelling and modernization is permissible, but in all cases of repair and rebuilding which affect the external appearance, traditional materials, forms, proportions and colours are to be maintained. This also applies in cases when a new building is an unavoidable necessity.
v) Without prior approval by the competent authority (represented by the Conservator of the MZ) no work that is likely to affect the appearance of the MZ may be carried out except in cases of emergency (threat of immediate collapse): this includes painting, refacing, reroofing, repaving, and the placing of signboards, advertisements, lighting and other street fixtures, poles and water outlets.
vi) Appropriate financial assistance and/or tax relief is to be granted in cases where compliance with regulations and design standards applicable in the MZ demonstrably leads to financial hardship for owners and/or inhabitants of property in the MZ.
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61. Patán Durbar Square will be affected directly and indirectly by many, perhaps most, planning decisions that are going to be made by the Kathmandu Valley Town Development Committee, and Planning Team; whenever such decisions are deliberated, an advocate for the concerns of Patan Durbar Square and other Monument Zones ought to be present.
62. In setting up the legal and administrative framework for he MZ it should not be overlooked that financial and technical assistance for this purpose may be available from multilateral and/or bilateral sources.
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Appendix 1
Patán Durbar Square: Some Building Dates
(Numbers in parentheses refer to Plan 12878/6, Figure 3)
10th Century!?) and later
1566
1589
1627
1637
1641
1652
1666-71
1646-47
1680
1678
1681
1701
1706(?)
1723
Manga Hiti(ll), renovated 1968
Char Narayan(17), renovated 1968
Narsingha(20)
Biswanath(8)
Krishna Mandir(14)
Degu Tale(23), rebuilt 1662, renovated 1938, 1969
Narayan(19)
Mul Chowk(25), Taleju(24) and Bidya Mandir(26), repaired 1934, 1969
Sundari Chowk(31), renovated 1958, 1969
Mani Keshav Narayan Chowk(15), completed 1734, renovated 1969-70
Baih Dega(27), renovated after 1934
Bhimsen(3), renovated 1968
Mani Mandapa(9),and Yoga Narendra Malla's Pillar(21)
Hari Shankar(22)
Krishna(Gopinath) (30), renovated after 1934
1737 Ghanta (bell) (29)
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Appendix 2
Extract from Master Plan for the Conservation of the Cultural Heritage in the Kathmandu Valley
Protection of Groups of Buildings ond Sites
1. His Majesty's Government may by notification in the Nepal Gazette declare any group of buildings or site which is of great importance from the historical, artistic or scientific point of view to be a scheduled site.
2. The notification mentioned in sub-section 1. shall contain an assurance that any objection filed with His Majesty's Government within sixty days from the date of publication thereof, shall be affixed at a conspicuous place near such group of buildings or such site.
3. On the expiry of the sixty days' time limit, His Majesty's Government, after taking any such objection into consideration, may withdraw or confirm the notification.
The Department for the Preservation of the Cultural Heritage shall establish and keep up to date an official list of scheduled groups of buildings and sites.
This list shall include a brief description of the scheduled group of buildings or site indicating its
geographical location, delimiting the protected area around it and giving the names and addresses of the owners or, as the case may be, of the Guthiyars or responsible administrator, together with the date on which it was scheduled.
Without prejudice to any protection to which it is entitled by virtue of other legislative texts, and in particular of laws and regulations concerning town development, Special Purpose Zones, National Parks and forests, a scheduled group of buildings or site shall be subject to the provisions of sections 48, 49 and 50 below.
Regardless of ownership, no alteration may be made to a scheduled group of buildings or a site or within- its field of view without special written permission from the Department for the Preservation of the Cultural Heritage. This provision refers in particular to construction work, deforestation, the installation of electric or telephone cables whether above or below the ground, gas or oil pipes, external additions, repairs or restorations to existing buildings and all external painting, carpentry and drainage work.
- 19 -
Similar permission shall also be required for the permanent installation of a movable object within the protected area of a scheduled group of buildings, on a scheduled site or in their field of view.
The maintenance of the buildings composing the scheduled group or of the scheduled site shall remain the responsibility of the ownors, but if His Majesty's Government considers large-scale restoration or improvement of the scheduled group of buildings or site to be necessary it shall pay a part of the cost and shall reach an agreement with the owners regarding the conduct and execution of the work.
All publicity, whether in the form of posters, notices, advertisements, or a luminous, auditory or any other kind of effect, shall be prohibited within the area of scheduled groups of buildings and sites and within their field of view except for on-premise signs authorized by
the Cultural Heritage Department under conditions to be determined by it.
In addition to having to restore the original appearance of the area at his own expense, any person guilty of infringing the provisions of section 48 and 50 shall be liable to a fine not exceeding 12 thousand rupees or a prison sentence not exceeding one year, or to both these penalties at the same time.
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PT
Eduard F Sekler, Architect Michael R Doyle Nancy Lago,del.
Urbanistic Conservation & Design Study
Fig. 1 Axonometrie bird's-eye view of Patan Durbar Square
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