Table of Contents

Abstract........................................................................................................................................... 2
Introduction ................................................................................................................................... 2
Masjid Wazir Khan
Conservation Works at Masjid Wazir Khan................................................................................... 3
ICOMOS CHARTERS
International Charter for the Conservation and Restoration of Monuments and Sites ............... 4
Charter for the Protection and management of Architectural Heritage ....................................... 8
International cultural Tourism Charter .......................................................................................... 9
Charter on the built vernacular Heritage..................................................................................... 10
ICOMOS Charter for the analysis, conservation, and structural restoration of
Architectural Heritage ................................................................................................................. 11
ICOMOS Principles for the preservation and conservation of Wall Paintings ............................ 11
CONCLUSION ................................................................................................................................ 11
References ..................................................................................................................................... 11

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ABSTRACT
In this report we will discuss the conservation work carried out at Masjid Wazir Khan in the light
of the International Charters for conservation and restoration. The report covers the charters
related to Masjid Wazir Khan, with an insight that up to what extent each charter has been
followed while doing the conservation works. Moreover, how each charter sets the principals
upon which the conservation process has been laid out. By following these certain methods of
conservation, the determined objectives were achieved.

INTRODUCTION
The International charters for Conservation and Restoration have been formed to provide
complete guidelines regarding the conservation. These charters were determined from time to
time by an organization named as ICOMOS. ICOMOS works for the conservation and protection
of cultural heritage places. It is the only global non-government organization of this kind, which
is dedicated to promoting the application of theory, methodology, and scientific techniques to
the conservation of the architectural and archaeological heritage.

Purpose of Charters
International Charters on the conservation and restoration were formulated to create a set of
certain guidelines and principles as how the preservation and management of monumental sites,
cultural heritage, archeological sites, natural resources and the built environment should be
carried out. Through the world the organizations and professionals working in this field uses
theses charters as the reference. The main purpose of these charters lies in ensuring that the sites
are being handled with responsibility and through a sustainable approach
Not only these charters explain the rules to handle the tangible things upon the site but it also
gives equal importance to the intangible factor of theses heritage sites. This might be neglected
but has more to do in building its identity than the any physical elements. These intangible things
include social, cultural, economic factors acting upon or around site. Moreover, people or
communities who live in the same region have direct or indirect impact on the site, or vice versa.
These charters ensure that the communities shall be given their desired significance and during
any sort of intervention their integrity will be fully respected.

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MASJID WAZIR KHAN
Masjid Wazir Khan is a historic mosque located in Lahore, Pakistan. It was constructed in the 17th
century during the reign of Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan by Hakim Alimuddin Ansari, aka Wazir
Khan. The mosque is located in the Walled City of Lahore, near the Delhi Gate, amidst the great
cultural bazaar. Form the outer courtyard a flight of steps leads to the mosque’s entrance. The
minarets and the walls of the mosque are adorned with tile work, frescoes, and calligraphy, which
are considered some of the finest examples of Mughal decorative art.
It was once the greatest example of Mughal Architecture. However, with the passing years and
due to quite a lot factors, it got deteriorated causing the need for its conservation and restoration.

Conservation Phases in Masjid Wazir Khan

Masjid Wazir Khan went through different phases of conservation held at different time periods
under different jurisdiction. The historical significance it holds concerns the authorities to keep it
in a best possible state.

Early 20th century

The very first and major effort of restoration dates back to the colonial era. It started in the early
20th century and was supervised by the British Architect W.K.T Blandford. At this stage the
restoration work majorly entertained the roofs, walls and minarets of the mosque. The
importance was also put to bring the services part in order. Hence the new plumbing and
electrical system was installed.

Pakistan Department of Archaeology and Museums

Later, the second restoration effort was carried out under the supervision of Pakistan Department
of Archaeology and Museums. This project that started 1970’s, continued for several years and
involved conserving the mosque’s tile works, calligraphy and frescoes.

The Aga Khan Trust for Culture (AKTC)

In 2014, the Agha Khan Trust for Culture launched a great program in the Walled City of Lahore
to conserve the old torn out historic buildings and make them inhabitable or bring them in use
for the general public. Under this, Masjid Wazir Khan was also subjected to conservation.
This conservation effort at Masjid Wazir Khan involved expertise of people belonging to different
professional fields. The team of architects, historians, archeologists, conservation specialists and
engineers worked in close coordination to ensure the best work. The techniques used includes a
wide range of traditional as well as modern conservation techniques. This was led after the
thorough understanding of mosques materials and constructional techniques that were
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previously used. And analyzing them in accordance with today. The workers and crafts men were
trained to be careful and bring out the precision needed for minute changes. For instance, the
repair and replacement of tiles that were damaged, re installation of frescoes, the stabilization of
structural elements and fitting of lighting and drainage systems.
This project was completed in 2018 and was highly praised, as the conservation measures taken
not only respected the site but was also quite sensitive to its historical fabric and the area’s
cultural background. Since then, it has drawn a lot of tourists and has been a significant landmark
depicting the history, art, culture, and craftmanship of the region.

ICOMOS CHARTERS
As discussed before, the ICOMOS charters defined the guidelines to do or judge the conservation
work. Following the international charters that relate to the work done at Masjid Wazir Khan.
Thorough study and analysis of each charter with respect to Wazir Khan Mosque in the light of
said objectives and principles are as follows.

1. International Charter for the Conservation and

Restoration of Monuments and Sites
2nd International Congress of Architects and Technicians of Historic Monuments, Venice
1964
The historic monuments of generations of people remain to the present day as living witnesses
of their age-old traditions. People are becoming more and more conscious of the unity of human
values and regard ancient monuments as a common heritage. It is essential that the principles
guiding the preservation and restoration of ancient buildings should be agreed and be laid down
on an international basis, with each country being responsible for applying the plan within the
framework of its own culture and traditions.

DEFINITIONS
Article 1. The concept of a historic monument embraces not only the single architectural work but also
the urban or rural setting in which is found the evidence of a particular civilization, a significant
development or a historic event. This applies not only to great works of art but also to more modest works
of the past which have acquired cultural significance with the passing of time.

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 Before Conservation

Urban context dealt during conservation

Article 2. The conservation and restoration of monuments must have recourse to all the sciences
and techniques which can contribute to the study and safeguarding of the architectural heritage.
Article 3. The intention in conserving and restoring monuments is to safeguard them no less as
works of art than as historical evidence.

CONSERVATION
According to the articles mentioned in here, Masjid Wazir khan is maintained on the permanent
basis. Although some parts suffer great deal of neglect. Without changing the layout, the site has
been made socially useful. For example, shops have been allocated in the arches surrounding the
building. No alteration in the original color or massing has been done.

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 MASS AND COLOR RELATION REMAIN SAME

RESTORATION
It preserves and reveals the aesthetic and historic value of the monument and is based on respect
for original material and authentic documents.
Replacements of missing parts must integrate harmoniously with the whole, but at the same time
must be distinguishable from the original so that restoration does not falsify the artistic or historic
evidence.

DIFFERENTITE ORIGINAL WITH COLOR

GRADING

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COMPLETELY CONSERVE

Where traditional techniques prove inadequate, the

consolidation of a monument was achieved by the use of modern technique for conservation and
construction.

POOR MAINTENANCE ON EXTERNAL

WALL

EXCAVATIONS
Excavations should be carried out in accordance with scientific standards and the
recommendation defining international principles to be applied in the case of archaeological
excavation adopted by UNESCO in 1956.

PUBLICATION
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In all works of preservation, restoration or excavation, there should always be precise
documentation in the form of analytical and critical reports, illustrated with drawings and
photographs. Every stage of the work of clearing, consolidation, rearrangement and integration,
as well as technical and formal features identified during the course of the work, should be
included.

2. CHARTER FOR THE PROTECTION AND

MANAGEMENT OF THE ARCHAEOLOGICAL
HERITAGE
Prepared by the International Committee for the Management of Archaeological Heritage
(ICAHM) an approved by the 9th General Assembly in Lausanne.
1990
The first step in implementing the Charter on the Wazir Khan Mosque was to conduct a thorough
analysis of the site. This involved studying the history and significance of the mosque, as well as
assessing its condition and identifying areas of deterioration. Based on the analysis, the next step
was to develop a conservation plan for the mosque. This involved identifying areas that required
intervention and implementing measures to prevent further deterioration. The Charter
emphasizes the importance of preserving the original structural and decorative elements of
architectural heritage sites. In the case of the Wazir Khan Mosque, the structural restoration
involved repairing and strengthening the foundations, walls, and arches while retaining the
original architectural features. The Charter advocates for the use of traditional materials and
techniques in the conservation and restoration of architectural heritage sites. In the case of the
Wazir Khan Mosque, traditional techniques such as lime plastering and bricklaying were used to
ensure the authenticity of the restoration work. The Charter also emphasizes the importance of
integrating the restored site with its surroundings. In the case of the Wazir Khan Mosque, this
involved restoring the courtyard and gardens to their original design and ensuring that the
mosque blended seamlessly with the surrounding urban fabric.

3. INTERNATIONAL CULTURAL TOURISM

CHARTER
Managing Tourism at Places of Heritage Significance
1999
Heritage is a broad concept and includes the natural as well as the cultural environment. It
encompasses landscapes, historic places, sites and built environments, as well as biodiversity,
collections, past and continuing cultural practices, knowledge and living experiences. At a time of
increasing globalization, the protection, conservation, interpretation and presentation of the
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heritage and cultural diversity of any particular place or region is an important challenge for
people everywhere.

The Dynamic Interaction between Tourism and Cultural Heritage

Domestic and international tourism continues to be among the foremost vehicles for cultural
exchange, providing a personal experience, not only of that which has survived from the past, but
of the contemporary life and society of others. It is increasingly appreciated as a positive force for
natural and cultural conservation.

Objectives of the Charter:

To facilitate tourism industry to promote and manage tourism to enhance the heritage and living
cultures of host communities.
To facilitate and encourage a dialogue between conservation interests and the tourism industry
about the importance and fragile nature of heritage places.
The Charter encourages the involvement of all those with relevant to join in achieving its
objectives.
The Charter encourages guidelines by interested parties, facilitating the implementation of the
principles to their specific circumstances.

PRINCIPLES OF THE CULTURAL TOURISM CHARTER

Following principles stated with respect to Masjid Wazir Khan.

Principle 1 Masjid Wazir Khan provides a narrative of historical development, it has

important role in modern life and is accessible to the general public. Programs for the
protection facilitate an understanding and appreciation of the heritage significance in an
equitable and affordable manner.

Principle 2 The relationship between the site, Masjid Wazir Khan, and the tourism factor
attached to it is quite stable and does not involve any conflicting values. The conservation
goals in regard to the tourism have successfully managed to create a great balance between
the sanity of the site and the booming tourism over there. By overcoming the challenges,
conservation strategies have been made as such that provides a lot of opportunity for the
locals.

Principal 3 The tourism programs at the site do provide information but in a very subtle way.
Various kinds of boards have been placed in the site, on which the information regarding its
history and the conservation process has been placed. The circulation patterns are such that
they allow the visitors to move around on their own pace, yet restricting them form
vandalism and harming the integrity of the site while sprawling. Activities provided plays the
role in visitors safety and well-being which intern generate a better experience.

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Principal 4 The rights and interests of the host community, at regional and local levels,
property owners and relevant indigenous peoples who exercise traditional rights or
responsibilities over there are fully respected. Host Community played a great role in devising
goals, strategies, policies and protocols for the identification, conservation, management,
presentation and interpretation. All the interventions done on the site are in accordance with
the cultural, religious beliefs of the community.

Principal 5 Conservation management programs and tourism activities have created a sense
of awareness. It now plays a role in passively educating the people living around the site to
take care of the heritage as their own property. Also, through different initiatives, site is trying
to help the community by providing employment opportunities.

4. CHARTER ON THE BUILT VERNACULAR

HERITAGE
Ratified by the ICOMOS 12th General Assembly, in Mexico, October
1999
Vernacular buildings are a traditional and natural way through which communities house
themselves. It is a continuing process including necessary changes and continuous adaptation.
Due to the homogenization of culture and of global socio-economic transformation, vernacular
structures all around the world are extremely vulnerable, facing serious problems of
obsolescence, internal equilibrium and integration. it is necessary, therefore, in addition to
the Venice Charter, to establish principles for the care and protection of our built vernacular
heritage

REPLACEMENT OF MATERIALS AND PARTS

Interventions to vernacular structure is carried out with respect by maintaining the integrity
of the physical and cultural landscape

CHANGES AND PERIOD RESTORATION

Changes over time are appreciated and understood as an important aspect of vernacular
architecture thus the two types of bricks area highlighted.

TRAINING
The onsite craftsmen are accompanied by young craftsmen in order to learn the craft. This
would increase the number of experts which would work regionally in future.

5. ICOMOS CHARTER- PRINCIPLES FOR THE

ANALYSIS, CONSERVATION AND STRUCTURAL
RESTORATION OF ARCHITECTURAL HERITAGE
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 Ratified by the ICOMOS 14th General Assembly in Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe
2003
Overall, the implementation of the Charter on the Wazir Khan Mosque involved a
comprehensive approach to the conservation and restoration of the site. By following the
principles outlined in the charter, the restoration work on the mosque was able to
preserve its historical and cultural significance while ensuring its continued use and
enjoyment by future generations.

6. ICOMOS PRINCIPLES FOR THE PRESERVATION

AND CONSERVATION-RESTORATION OF WALL
PAINTINGS
Ratified by the ICOMOS 14th General Assembly in Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe
2003
The following articles refer to paintings created on inorganic supports, such as plaster, brick,
clay and stone, and do not include paintings executed on organic supports, such as wood,
paper and canvas. Protection Policy
• Investigation
• Documentation
• Preventive Conservation, Maintenance and Site Management
• Conservation-Restoration Treatments
• Research and Public Information
• Professional Qualifications and
• Traditions of Renewal Training
• International Co-operation

CONCLUSION
From the descriptions provided in the above-mentioned report it can be concluded that
Masjid Wazir Khan is built considering the International Charters as much as it could. The
heritage site in the present generates great revenue through tourism. It is hereby now the
responsibility of the nation to carry forward this legacy and preserve it as a state of art for
the upcoming generations.

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 References
• https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/documentation-conservation-wazir-khan-mosque-lahore-salman-
muhammad/
• https://www.archnet.org/publications/6584
• https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/documentation-conservation-wazir-khan-mosque-lahore-
salman-muhammad/

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