Nostalgia, Architecture, Ruins, and Their Preservation

The concept of nostalgia is analyzed in its various metamorphoses, from its birth to the present day, with particular reference to architecture and heritage. While nostalgia does not seem to be a central concern for modern architects, except for a brief period which is described in its central issues, ruins as the perfect place for nostalgia are used to make some suggestions on the ontological nature of architecture. At the conclusion, the concept of nostalgia in its current meaning supports specific policies devised to preserve the spirit of ruins.