The Journal of City: Branding and Authenticity
Vol. 4 No. 1: (July) 2026

Kudus Kulon as a living heritage site: The dialectics of heritage preservation

Astari Wulandari (Department of Architecture, Faculty of Engineering, Universitas 17 Agustus 1945 Semarang, Central Java 5023)
Atik Suprapti (Department of Architecture, Faculty of Engineering, Universitas Diponegoro, Semarang, Central Java 50275)
Agung Budi Sardjono (Department of Architecture, Faculty of Engineering, Universitas Diponegoro, Semarang, Central Java 50275)



Article Info

Publish Date
30 Jul 2026

Abstract

Background: This study aims to determine the characteristics of continuity in the Kudus Kulon living heritage site. Furthermore, this study seeks to explain the process of cultural heritage preservation through the lens of spatial production, which involves the collaboration of various actors. This research is expected to provide deeper understanding of studies on living heritage and spatial production, as well as provide practical contributions to strengthening community-based preservation strategies in living heritage site. Methods: This research uses a qualitative approach with a case study strategy to understand cultural heritage preservation in Kudus Kulon as a living heritage site. Data were obtained through field observations, in-depth interviews, and documentation studies, then analyzed thematically using the living heritage framework and Lefebvre's theory of spatial production. The analysis was conducted to identify forms of continuity, community practices, and the reproduction of spatial meaning in the cultural heritage preservation process. Findings: These research findings confirm and enrich the Western concept of living heritage by highlighting the continuity of original functions, transformation, the involvement of core communities, and sustained adaptability. The Sunan Kudus Heritage site, the traditional Joglo Pencu house, and the Buka Luwur and Dandangan traditions demonstrate that heritage remains alive not by being frozen in time, but through continuous use, maintenance, and reinterpretation by the community and local foundations. In this context, social change and institutional adjustments do not weaken the heritage; rather, they become integral to the sustainability strategy of the heritage space. Conclusion: Kudus Kulon demonstrates its capacity as a dialectical space of living heritage, where continuity and change do not negate each other, but rather complement each other within a unique and contextual framework of socio-spatial relations. Novelty/Originality of this article: This study offers a novel contribution by integrating the "living heritage" perspective and Lefebvre’s theory of the production of space to interpret cultural heritage preservation as a dialectical socio-spatial process.

Copyrights © 2026






Journal Info

Abbrev

JCBAU

Publisher

Subject

Civil Engineering, Building, Construction & Architecture Economics, Econometrics & Finance Social Sciences Transportation

Description

The Journal of City promotes Branding and Authenticity explores and explains the two related but distinct practices named in its title. City branding applies brand strategy and related techniques to advance the economic, social, political and cultural development of cities, regions and countries. ...