Heritage Defense Associations towards a model of Cultural Heritage Policy in Portugal between 1974 and 1985

Abstract

Heritage Defense Associations (ADP) actions are analyzed during the affirmation of the democratic regime in Portugal, between 1974 and 1985, as well as the relationship between them and governmental entities, in the pursuit of a policy for cultural heritage in Portugal. An historical continuity of action is demonstrated in the search for an integration into the organs and instruments of governance. After 1974, the critical capital existing in the associations was recognized by the governments, and this argument was used by ADP to support their participation in the definition of models and strategies for heritage, based on their relationship with communities. It is argued that the relationship between government entities and ADP was not always consensual and concerted and marked by practices of state centralization. In this process the associative contributions were appropriated by the heritage administration in Portugal, but this did not favor the associative movement, which faded away.