Heritage and Recovery: Lessons from the Gorkha Earthquake

Abstract

First paragraph: 2025 marks ten years since the 2015 Gorkha Earthquake(s) struck Nepal, killing nearly 9,000 people, and causing catastrophic damage to lives and livelihoods, as well as physical, social, and cultural infrastructure. The disaster left a deep impact on heritage across the country; from internationally recognised monuments and heritage sites to community and religious heritage buildings and landscapes, objects and museums, and the myriad cultural practices that enrich the lives of Nepal's inhabitants. In the aftermath of the Gorkha Earthquake, heritage has emerged as a key sector for post-disaster recovery, not only because of its role in Nepal's economy. but also as a central aspect of collective memory. national and local identity, and social and psychological well-being.