ICOMOS has very much influenced my work, my missions and especially the content of my courses at the Middle East Technical University in Ankara as well as my courses in ICCROM on architectural conservation. Thus, I have learned the multidisciplinary facets of conservation of cultural property - the importance of dialogue between owners and historians, archaeologists, art historians, scientists and technicians of conservation and that is what makes our profession challenging, attractive and dynamic. But what I have learned above all is that in order to establish the right balance and right dialogue, one should always keep in mind that an understanding of the attitudes of people towards their own heritage is fundamental. Only in this way can one correctly diagnose and cure the ailments affecting cultural heritage. 

ICOMOS has very much influenced my work, my missions and especially the content of my courses at the Middle East Technical University in Ankara as well as my courses in ICCROM on architectural conservation. Thus, I have learned the multidisciplinary facets of conservation of cultural property - the importance of dialogue between owners and historians, archaeologists, art historians, scientists and technicians of conservation and that is what makes our profession challenging, attractive and dynamic. But what I have learned above all is that in order to establish the right balance and right dialogue, one should always keep in mind that an understanding of the attitudes of people towards their own heritage is fundamental. Only in this way can one correctly diagnose and cure the ailments affecting cultural heritage.