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ICOMOS
XI’AN DECLARATION
(2005)
ON THE CONSERVATION OF THE SETTING OF HERITAGE
STRUCTURES, SITES AND AREAS
1. The setting of a heritage structure, site or area is defined as the immediate and
extended environment that is part of, or contributes to, its significance and
distinctive character.
7. Planning instruments should include provisions to effectively control the impact of
incremental or rapid change on settings.
Significant skylines, sight lines and adequate distance between any new public or
private development and heritage structures, sites and areas are key aspects to
assess in the prevention of inappropriate visual and spatial encroachments or land
use in significant settings.