Words of appreciation and gratitude recently marked the farewell ceremony for Patricia Alberth as director of the World Heritage Center in Bamberg. “We can only congratulate the people of Baden-Württemberg on this personnel decision,” emphasized Mayor Andreas Starke at the World Heritage Visitor Center, referring to Patricia Alberth’s new role: Starting in March, she will become managing director of the State Palaces and Gardens in her home state of Baden-Württemberg.

In his speech, Starke described this move as “a wonderful career advancement that she has not only truly earned, but which also underscores the qualities and competencies she embodies.” He looked back on Alberth’s successful tenure at the World Heritage Center, which began nearly ten years ago in November 2013. Highlights during this time included the design and construction of the World Heritage Visitor Center at the Untere Mühlen, as well as the development of a management plan for the Bamberg World Heritage Site.

Patricia Alberth also looked back with satisfaction on her work in Bamberg: “We were able to implement great projects and build first-rate partnerships.” She immediately passed on her thanks to her staff: “All of this was only possible thanks to a fantastic, fantastic team and the trust placed in me by the city leadership!” She is now looking forward to the new challenge in Baden-Württemberg. Diana Büttner will now take over as interim director of the World Heritage Center in Bamberg.

Interview with Patricia Alberth

In this interview, Patricia Alberth shares what she’s taking away from Bamberg and what other recommendations she has for the city.

When you compare Bamberg to other World Heritage sites, what makes Bamberg’s Old Town so special?

What makes each site special is its so-called outstanding universal value—in Bamberg’s case, the medieval city layout and the exceptionally well-preserved architecture, particularly from the Middle Ages and the Baroque period.

The relationship between the people of Bamberg and their World Heritage Site is also special, isn’t it? How would you describe it?

The people of Bamberg feel a strong connection to the city. Their own history is intertwined with that of the city. Accordingly, they are committed to Bamberg. That’s not something to be taken for granted. That’s why many envy us.

What needs to be done to ensure that Bamberg’s Old Town will still be standing in 200 years?

Stay away from shady investors.

What specific advice would you give city leaders regarding the management of the World Heritage Site?

City leaders know that Bamberg’s World Heritage status gives them the backing they need to safeguard the city’s long-term interests. It is important that enough people continue to be trained in the trades to preserve the World Heritage Site.

How can young people be inspired by Old Henry and his legacy?

The values that Henry and Kunigunde stand for are still relevant today: their affection for one another, their forward-thinking actions, and their vision that transcends national borders.

With the Venice Carnival underway, there is talk of the lagoon city being sold out. Do you see similar trends in Bamberg?

Bamberg’s cultural heritage is an important economic factor. Fortunately, Bamberg is far removed from conditions like those in Venice. Bamberg’s infrastructure is primarily geared toward the needs of the local population. I support the Tourism & Congress Service’s strategy to sharpen Bamberg’s profile as a cultural destination: quality over quantity! 

What advice would you give your successor?

The World Heritage site in Bamberg has many dedicated supporters who need to be involved.

You are becoming the managing director of the State Palaces and Gardens in Baden-Württemberg, an organization with 221 employees. Do you feel daunted by the task?

Of course I have respect for the management of the State Palaces and Gardens in Baden-Württemberg. At the same time, I feel well-prepared. How can I leverage increasing digitalization for historic sites? How can I inspire young people to appreciate their cultural heritage? How can I mitigate the effects of climate change on buildings and gardens? How can I forge alliances to achieve more together? These questions are familiar territory for me.

What will you miss?

Bamberg, with everything that goes with it, and my weekly supply of vegetables from the Gärtnerstadt.

Caption: Mayor Andreas Starke thanked Patricia Alberth for her work in Bamberg.

Photo credit: City of Bamberg, Michael Memmel