Merging Heritage Management and Urban Development - Creating Sustainable Archaeological Heritage Tourism in Cities

In recent decades many European city centers have been (re)developed to accommodate the exponential growth of inhabitants. Roman remains are regularly discovered during construction processes, and their careful excavation can delay construction projects significantly. The 1992 European Convention on the Protection of the Archaeological Heritage attempted to ensure the protection of archaeological heritage during urban (re)development. This has led to a rather strained relationship between urban planners and heritage managers. Better cooperation between these two stakeholders is necessary. In this thesis, key theories and concepts to improve cooperation are explored. On the basis of a mutual understanding of the similarities and differences between sociocultural and economic values, common ground can be found by the different stakeholders. Furthermore, sustainable tourism is an important concept. Recently an immense growth in cultural heritage tourism has occurred, also stimulated by...Show moreIn recent decades many European city centers have been (re)developed to accommodate the exponential growth of inhabitants. Roman remains are regularly discovered during construction processes, and their careful excavation can delay construction projects significantly. The 1992 European Convention on the Protection of the Archaeological Heritage attempted to ensure the protection of archaeological heritage during urban (re)development. This has led to a rather strained relationship between urban planners and heritage managers. Better cooperation between these two stakeholders is necessary. In this thesis, key theories and concepts to improve cooperation are explored. On the basis of a mutual understanding of the similarities and differences between sociocultural and economic values, common ground can be found by the different stakeholders. Furthermore, sustainable tourism is an important concept. Recently an immense growth in cultural heritage tourism has occurred, also stimulated by the World Heritage List. Roman remains are among the most popular attractions, and are well represented on the List. Sustainable tourism is crucial to ensure long-term profit and minimal deterioration of cultural heritage. To create sustainable tourism in city centers, the theories of the ‘heritagescape’ and of the ‘experience economy’ are crucial. Attempting to create sustainable tourism in city centers with Roman remains is what will bring heritage managers and urban planners closer together. It is a common goal in which both these stakeholders’ values are represented. An investigation was conducted which consisted of a literature research and a field research. On the basis of a number of theories, the importance of sustainable heritage tourism was investigated from economic, social, and cultural perspectives. Important topics such as stakeholders, valuation, international legislation, and experience value are explored and explained. Field research was conducted in Rome (Italy), Bath (United Kingdom), and Cologne (Germany). It consisted of explorations of these city centers and interviews with the on-site heritage managers and project leaders. The information gathered was then analyzed. International regulations and valuations always need to be considered. However, through a common understanding of valuation systems of archaeological heritage it is easier to discuss the wants and needs of different stakeholders. Sustainable heritage tourism is beneficial for many parties, and represents many values. It can be created through applying the ‘heritagescape’ and the ‘experience economy’ theories. Fruitful cooperation between urban planners and heritage managers can be created by focusing on the common goal of creating sustainable heritage tourism.Show less

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Merging Heritage Management and Urban Development - Creating Sustainable Archaeological Heritage Tourism in Cities