A risk-reduction framework for urban cultural heritage: a comparative study on Italian historic centres

A comparative study of Italian historic centres, including the UNESCO-listed Historic Centre of San Gimignano, has developed and validated a large-scale methodology for assessing and managing risks to cultural heritage. This framework addresses both tangible and intangible values while considering vulnerabilities such as built environment characteristics, community dynamics, risk awareness, maintenance gaps, and regulatory shortcomings. The approach evaluates primary and secondary hazards, site-specific threats, and event impact chains to tailor mitigation, preparedness, response, and recovery measures. Applied to San Gimignano and Reggio Calabria, the methodology identifies research gaps and practical opportunities for standardized safety guidelines, offering a comprehensive and inclusive tool for disaster risk management in cultural heritage.

Giuliani, F., De Paoli, R. G., & Di Miceli, E. (2021). A risk-reduction framework for urban cultural heritage: a comparative study on Italian historic centres. Journal of Cultural Heritage Management and Sustainable Development, 11(4), 499–515. https://doi.org/10.1108/jchmsd-07-2020-0099