Local activists have been trying to rally support in favor of increased government protection of Shanghai's historic Shikumen buildings for years. The issue has even garnered some international attention from scholars.
This week, the government launched an initiative to protect Shikumen buildings and avoid destruction of them. This marks the government's official recognization of the buildings' cultural significance and immediate endangerment. According to QQ News, the new initiative will protect 44 areas, 378 streets and 1058 "remarkable architecture" units of Shikumen buildings.
Shanghai's Shikumen buildings began construction in the 1870s. Since then, they've gradually developed to have the greatest number of buildings and residents among all Shanghai residence types. The most prominent example of Shikumen are the ones in Xintiandi, but most of these buildings have been remodeled or rebuilt.
As centry-old buildings, Shikumen are concrete proof of Shanghai's architectural culture and history. Shanghai is known as a city that mixes tradition and modernness. This unique architecture is a key representation of the former.
Equally important are the communities and social culture that exists within Shikumen communities. Residents are able to maintain the distinctive social intractions of old Shanghai. They hang around Shikumen's open spaces, interacting with neighbors through casual conversation and activities. The Shikumen community exhibits the old Shanghai collective culture. This is a way of life not found in more modern residence types (such as apartment buildings), where residents are much more individualistic and keep to themselves.
Hopefully, this new government initiatve to preserve Shikumen will enrich Shanghai's unique city culture. Next time you stroll by Shikumen buildings, remember not to take them for granted.
[Images via Destination Chine, East Day, Nipic, BitAuto, 997788.com]
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