That assistance will ensure their survival for succeeding generations to enjoy the richness of Guyanese history and traditions, the watchdog body said.

A statement pointed out that culture is a concept that encapsulates the totality of the way of life of a group of people, its key characteristics being manifest in their shared customs, habits, traditions and beliefs that, in combination, impart distinctiveness.

“Our built heritage, like culture, is inherited from our ancestors and is a visible and often profound tie with our past. These historic areas and their surroundings should be regarded as forming an irreplaceable universal heritage. They should be actively protected against damage of all kinds, particularly that resulting from unsuitable use,” the Trust explained.

It said the landmark situated at the eastern end of Brickdam (Georgetown) is one of Guyana’s national monuments, erected to commemorate the achievements of the 1763 slave revolt at Plantation Magdelenenburg in Berbice, is an excellent example of the built heritage.

“Sensitively and imaginatively designed, carefully detailed and constructed of bronze, this monument deserves to be conserved for the benefit of future generations,” the statement said.

The Trust, observing that, when visiting historical sites, local and foreign visitors often go to the extremes to have that first hand experience, said it is necessary for those places to be treated with the respect they deserve.

Another observation was that “many tend to have the urge to immortalise the moment”, through inscribing their names with graffiti or even, more shocking, with knives and other sharp objects that “permanently damage the fabric of our history”.

“Others simply plunder the site, taking tokens as souvenirs or, as in the case of the 1763 monument, ascend to a higher level to have a better view.

“Is it that we have no confidence left in our values, our history, our culture and no respect for the heritage of our forefathers?” asked the Trust.