Relationship Between Preservation of Built Cultural Heritage and Economic Development in Lisbon and Porto: Cultural Legacy and Urban Revitalization as Serial Mediation Mechanisms

A significant link between the preservation of built cultural heritage (PBCH) and economic development has been identified, with cultural legacy and urban revitalization acting as serial mediators. This study, conducted in Lisbon and Porto, reveals that PBCH not only drives regional economic growth but also does so more effectively when combined with cultural legacy and urban revitalization processes. The research employed a cross-sectional, quantitative approach using data from 633 tourists, demonstrating that the indirect effect of PBCH through cultural legacy is stronger than through urban revitalization alone, though their combined serial effect yields the most substantial impact on economic development. These findings provide critical insights for policymakers and stakeholders in urban development, emphasizing the multifaceted role of heritage preservation in fostering sustainable economic progress.

Rodrigues, R., Heitor, J. C., Pimentel, H., & Lopes, T. (2025). Relationship Between Preservation of Built Cultural Heritage and Economic Development in Lisbon and Porto: Cultural Legacy and Urban Revitalization as Serial Mediation Mechanisms. Societies, 15(5), 124. https://doi.org/10.3390/soc15050124