Key:historic

The historic=* key is used to tag features that still exist or of which traces are observable, and that are of historic interest, or where the feature class is generally of historical interest (e.g. wayside shrines are tagged like this, even if they were set up yesterday).

For features which no longer exist, use life cycle prefixes.

Many historic sites are important tourist destinations.

Note that individual tags are outcome of organic tag growth use (see ATYL) and as result there is not really possible to specify some nice characteristic shared by all historic=* objects. Some attempted to declare that historic=* is used only for objects that are historically significant, but it does not match actual use.

Usage

This key can be used on every observable feature that has a historical meaning, regardless of

• historical importance. For example, inclusion in an authoritative listing of historic sites, or a special protected status is not a requirement.
• size, and in particular the degree to which it influences the visible landscape.
• interest to the OSM community.

Common examples are:

• Castles
• Historical transport infrastructure, such as Roman roads or disused railway tracks
• Historical sites of large-scale mineral extraction

When not to use

The tag historic=* is used to identify subjects that relate to human history.

• For features which no longer exist see lifecycle prefix and Comparison of life cycle concepts.
• Geological features are described using geological=*.
• Palaeontological sites (places containing the remains of ancient life-forms) are also described using geological=*.
• Features that are natural heritage or part thereof are tagged with heritage=*, or landuse=*.
• Information boards on historical topics are tagged tourism=information + information=board + board_type=history.
• Museums that cover history are tagged tourism=museum + exhibit=history.

However, if the feature is also a cultural heritage or has other historic importance, historic=* can be used alongside other tags.

How to map

The key can be used on any OSM object ( ) that represents a real-world feature which qualifies for this tag (see above).

Values

The value of historic=* is used to characterise the type of feature. The range of possible values is open, but if one of the values listed below can be used to adequately describe the feature, it should be used.

This table is a wiki template with a default description in English. Editable here.

Possible tagging mistakes

See also

• Historic
• heritage=*
• ruins=yes
• abandoned:amenity=prison for concentration camp, prisoner of war camp