This introduction intends to contribute to the debate sparked by conflicting and occasionally hostile viewpoints about the preservation and conservation of the tangible and intangible heritage of the Newars. We focus on Patan where the Department of Archaeology, the Heritage Unit (part of the Technical Department established in 1993), and the City Pride Project Unit (established in 2018) of the municipality, as well as national and international non-governmental organizations all claim stewardship of an often-imagined past and revival of Newar identity.

We intend to contribute reflections on the shifting meaning of the term 'tradition'. This introduction highlights aspects of change with special reference to building materials and tools. Subsequent chapters delve into examples from the field of architectural heritage preservation, showcasing a striking variety of approaches influenced by personal experiences, individual preferences, deeply held convictions, and ideological biases.