Illustrated with a wide range of international 'boxed' case studies, this book provides a clear and comprehensive introduction to heritage studies. Covering key concepts, current debates and management issues, it is ideal for use as a textbook for undergraduae heritage studies students and as an introduction for MA students. It explains the concept of heritage and how the study of heritage developed across a number of disciplines, evolving through different periods, from a focus on conservation in the 1970s through enterprise in the 1980s to multiculturalism in the 1990s. It highlights the key academic writers and popular commentators and examines their contribution to the study of heritage. The book also engages students in current political, economic and cultural deabtes concerning issues such as nationality, identity, funding, as well as the uses and abuses of heritage. It also addresses the main themes in management of heritage as a process, as object and as site, and critically appraises the work of heritage organisations. The book is organised in four parts, exploring the cultural and political context of heritage, natural heritage, heritage as an economic process and research. Each part is presented as a 'stand alone' section, with thematic introduction framing key study questions. The final section focuses on research and professional practice providing a base for work-based learning, student centred research and professional development. The book concludes with a summary of key themes and their inter-linkage, study questions, links to appropriate websites and further study suggestions.