On November 12, 2026, the Schwerin Local Board of Trustees of the DSD will present Günther Uecker’s latest *Black Book of Monument Preservation*—a catalog of lost history—at the State Library of Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania.
The Schwerin Local Board of the German Foundation for Monument Protection (DSD) extends this invitation. Jürgen Hansen, head of the Local Board, will present the DSD’s publication—which was released in its second edition in 2026—and provide insights into the challenges of historic preservation in Germany.
Admission is free. Donations to support the work of the DSD are gratefully accepted.
The lecture will focus on the stories of historic sites that were irretrievably lost in 2024 and 2025. Using selected examples, Hansen illustrates the consequences that demolition, decay, or inadequate protection can have for cultural heritage. At the same time, he takes stock of developments in the German heritage landscape and highlights the issues that have particularly shaped heritage protection and preservation during these two years.
The Black Book makes it clear that the loss of historic buildings and sites not only alters the appearance of cities and towns but also leaves gaps in cultural memory.
Furthermore, the publication offers insights into the fundamentals of historic preservation, highlights current challenges, and presents possible solutions for the preservation of architectural heritage. Following the approximately one-hour lecture, there will be an opportunity for questions, discussion, and exchange.
