Encouraging Willingness to Contribute, City Fortifications and their Conservation in the Mediterranean

A balanced approach to funding the conservation of Mediterranean city fortifications, such as Valletta's, can be achieved by encouraging visitors' willingness to contribute rather than relying solely on visitor fees. Research across fortified cities including Famagusta, Rhodes, and Dubrovnik reveals that visitors are often willing to pay more when they know their contributions directly support upkeep. This strategy leverages the cultural, scientific, and educational values of these sites while addressing the financial challenges of maintaining extensive fortifications, which are difficult to adapt for sustainable revenue beyond visitation. The study explores pricing strategies and visitor behavior to maximize conservation funding without restricting public access.

Eppich, R., & García Grinda, J. L. (2015). Encouraging Willingness to Contribute, City Fortifications and their Conservation in the Mediterranean. MODERN AGE FORTIFICATIONS of the MEDITERRANEAN COAST - DEFENSIVE ARCHITECTURE OF THE MEDITERRANEAN (FORTMED2015). https://doi.org/10.4995/fortmed2015.2015.1745