REGENERATION OF THE REPUBLIC OF NORTH MACEDONIA'S MUSEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY: HISTORY, CHALLENGES, AND OPPORTUNITIES
Arbresha IBRAHIMI
Abstract
Historical, socio-political and environmental factors have had a major impact on the establishment and functioning of the Natural History Museum in the Republic of North Macedonia (RNM). Founded in 1962 by Dr Stanko Karaman, the museum has been a focal point for the preservation, research and exhibition of the country’s biodiversity. However, the 1963 earthquake decentralised the institute and led to a restructuring of its operations and infrastructure. The current state of the museum highlights the struggle to balance modernisation with the preservation of history, architecture and the urban landscape. Despite its ideal location in the Skopje City Park and its proximity to the zoo, the museum unfortunately coexists with its surroundings. To address this problem, urban regeneration, including financial, social and urban architectural sustainability, is necessary. Through urban regeneration, the museum not only strengthens and highlights its historical significance, but it also has the potential to serve as a catalyst for strengthening institutional, managerial, educational and cultural partnerships. This research examines the history of the museum, identifies its current problems and suggests solutions for its socio-cultural regeneration through architectural redemption and urban regeneration.
Pages: 40 - 48