Publications
Cultural tourism pressure on historic centres: Its impact on public space and intervention strategies for its mitigation. Florence, Italy, as a case study
Mass cultural tourism, while driving economic growth, has led to unsustainable pressures on historic centres, including congestion, pollution, and the loss of public space diversity. A study focusing on Florence, Italy, reveals that these issues persist despite temporary reductions in tourist flows, such as those seen during the COVID-19 pandemic. The research proposes sustainable urban design strategies for public spaces to mitigate overtourism's impact, balancing the needs of both tourists and residents. By analyzing theoretical frameworks of overtourism and applying them to Florence, the study offers actionable solutions to preserve cultural heritage while supporting economic recovery in tourist-dependent cities.
The safeguarding and enhancement of the Historic and Traditional businesses of the Historical Centre of Florence
Traditional businesses in Florence's historic center are more than commercial entities; they embody the city's cultural and urban evolution, with their intangible heritage intricately linked to the authenticity of the environment. A study by Bertocci and Cioli (2023) reveals that integrating physical documentation with the recording of intangible features—such as skills, practices, and social dynamics—is crucial for preserving the city's identity. The research highlights how the disappearance of these elements can irreversibly alter Florence's urban landscape, underscoring the need for comprehensive safeguarding protocols. By leveraging UNESCO's 2003 convention on intangible cultural heritage, the study introduces tools to assess their impact on the city's evolving image over time.
Towards a nature-culture relationship in historic centres. Evidence of public spaces beyond tourism in Florence (Italy)
Historic centres worldwide face unprecedented challenges from climate change and mass tourism, disrupting the balance between nature and culture. This study highlights two successful conservation projects in Florence's UNESCO-listed Historic Centre that addressed these issues by regenerating public spaces using nature-based solutions. These projects demonstrate how historic urban landscapes can contribute to sustainable development while preserving cultural heritage. The research builds on existing literature about tourism impacts and nature-culture relationships, offering practical examples of adaptive strategies for similar contexts.
Dealing with uncertainty, from overtourism to overcapacity: a decision support model for art cities: the case of UNESCO WHCC of Florence
A decision support model for art cities, exemplified by the UNESCO World Heritage Historic Centre of Florence, reveals critical insights into managing tourist flows and balancing heritage preservation with economic and social needs. The study identifies key indicators to measure carrying capacity, assessing risks posed by overtourism both before and after the COVID-19 pandemic. It highlights how the Municipality of Florence's sustainable tourism strategy addresses these challenges, offering a framework for other historic cities to monitor tourism impacts and implement effective policies. This model provides a nuanced understanding of the evolving tourism phenomenon, its implications, and strategies for long-term preservation.
Virtual models for the valorisation and promotion of the business heritage in the historic centre of Florence
A new platform leveraging virtual models, including 3D reconstructions and 360° tours, has been developed to promote and valorize Florence's historic business heritage. This 'diffuse museum' integrates diverse content—such as images, information, and thematic itineraries—to enhance accessibility, knowledge dissemination, and cultural tourism experiences both on-site and remotely. The initiative emphasizes the intangible value of craftsmanship and local traditions, offering a novel approach to preserving and showcasing Florence's historical commercial legacy while fostering sustainable cultural engagement.
Revitalization of the Penitentiary Complexes in the Historic Centre of Florence
A revitalization project has transformed the historic Murate Prison complex, formerly part of Santa Croce in Florence, into a new multifunctional social center. This initiative builds upon the 15th-century monastic foundations that originally housed these penitentiary institutions, which have occupied a significant portion of the site for over a century. The study analyzes the project's outcomes and its broader significance for the city, highlighting how repurposing such heritage structures can foster community engagement while preserving architectural history. By integrating modern social functions into a preserved historic framework, this approach offers a model for sustainable urban revitalization in UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Joining Historic Cities to the Global World: Feasibility or Fantasy?
Historic cities, including Florence, face challenges and opportunities in the era of globalization. While Florence's unique environmental qualities have made it a top tourist destination, its long-term sustainability depends on strategic urban planning to attract global economic investment and skilled labor. A study involving 384 randomly selected participants in Florence's historic center revealed that creating a precise and distinctive city image is crucial for historic cities to thrive globally. The research used descriptive statistics and logistic regression analysis to assess the feasibility of this transition, highlighting the need for balanced urban development to maintain cultural heritage while embracing global integration.
Pressione turistica sul Centro Storico di Firenze - sito UNESCO
Tourist pressure on Florence's historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1982, can be effectively managed through participatory mapping and stakeholder engagement. This study introduces an innovative decision-making model that integrates local community perceptions with data on tourist pressure, site status, and impacts. By using web-based mapping tools, the research aims to support controlled and shared management strategies, enhance dialogue among stakeholders, and mitigate negative effects of tourism. The approach is designed to be incorporated into Florence's existing Management Plan, offering a practical solution for decentralizing tourist flows and preserving the site's integrity.
Fashion and city branding: An analysis of the perception of Florence as a fashion city
Florence's fashion industry significantly enhances the city's global attractiveness, shaping its image as a premier fashion destination. A 2015 study revealed that tourists and fashion consumers perceive Florence not just as a historic site but as a hub for luxury shopping, with its reputation influencing travel decisions. The research, conducted via surveys along Via Tornabuoni—a renowned luxury street—highlighted how fashion branding strengthens local businesses while boosting the city's competitive edge. Findings suggest that leveraging Florence's fashion identity could further propel its economic and cultural standing, offering strategic insights for both city marketers and fashion brands.
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