Register of Good Safeguarding Practices
The Trade of Paving: Passing-on, Maintaining and Promoting Knowledge and Techniques
The trade of paving is continuously adapting to technical developments and shapes particularly town planning in Germany.
The trade of paving can be traced back to the 11th century in Germany. Historically it was chiefly used for representative purposes, for roads, squares, castle courtyards and alleys. The pavers use smooth flagstones, selected stones or fired tiles also known as clinker bricks. Clinker bricks played a very important role previously if there was not a sufficient supply of natural stone, for example in the plains of northern Germany. Over the last few years, the use of paving has been increasing again owing to its ecological advantages compared with tarmac. The quality of paving depends on whether it is carried out professionally and correctly, with knowledge of the trade, experience and the creativity of the pavers of great importance. In Germany about 50 percent of municipal thoroughfares are paved.
Today the trade is organised in a network, which supports the transmission of knowledge and skills, also regarding natural stone paving. The network arranges training courses for this together with associations and guilds. Travelling exhibitions are intended to raise interest in the trade and encourage the younger generation to enter the profession. The pavers cooperate with universities and vocational schools. They are also networked for cross-border exchanges with groups in other countries.
