Author(s)

R. Di Giulio, T. Zaffagnini, S. Brunoro, D. Longo & E. Piaia

Abstract

This paper provides an introduction to the aims of the EU Villas project (Interreg IIIB Cadses 2000-2006). It entails the improvement and revitalisation of the aesthetic and economic aspects of architectural heritage by creating an evaluation model and defining a compatible strategic tool for re-use, in keeping with the planning criteria and sustainable policies of the CADSES area. The European countries involved in this research project are developing common strategies to preserve and exploit their environmental and building heritage and to implement cultural-tourism activities. Specific tools have been developed in order to assess and valorise the aesthetic and economic aspects of architectural heritage, taking into account each country’s peculiarities (specific problems, users, regulations, etc). Our research group at the University of Ferrara, Department of Architecture, is studying rural buildings in Emilia Romagna that are insufficiently valorised. The preservation of this heritage can be achieved through economic re-use and the definition of integrated strategies ranging from land planning to sustainable refurbishment techniques. These strategies are presented in this paper. Keywords: rural building heritage, sustainable tourism, promotional activities, strategies and best practice. 1 Introduction When preserved and managed in an appropriate way, cultural heritage can play a decisive role in spatial development. Heritage buildings form an integrated system which characterises the landscape and remain in our collective memory. The landscape is the aesthetic expression of the environment. Therefore, historical buildings provide material evidence of civilisation in their spatial and

Keywords

rural building heritage, sustainable tourism, promotional activities, strategies and best practice.