Cultural heritage as a contributor to territorial/urban resilience

Elisabetta Margiotta Nervi (PLN Project)


In an era characterized by rapid and complex transformations, the concept of resilience has become central to urban and territorial planning.

Cities, as complex adaptive and social–ecological systems, face growing challenges driven by climate change, natural and human-made disasters, and the pressures of globalization. These dynamics underscore the need to strengthen preparedness, adaptability, and the ability to absorb shocks while maintaining essential functions and ensuring sustainable development.

Within this framework, cultural heritage emerges as a key resource for enhancing urban and territorial resilience. Beyond its tangible value, heritage provides historical knowledge, identity, and a sense of belonging—critical elements for risk prevention, disaster recovery, and sustainable planning. Its integration into resilience strategies aligns with the objectives of the UN 2030 Agenda and the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction, reinforcing the role of heritage in shaping inclusive, safe, and sustainable human settlements.

Cathedral Basilica of Our Lady of the Pillar, Zaragoza Cathedral Basilica of Our Lady of the Pillar, Zaragoza - Spain during the flood of the river Ebro in 2015

If you want to explore innovative approaches to urban and territorial resilience—spanning theoretical frameworks, resilience methodologies, resilient cities and landscapes, climate change adaptation, heritage management, preservation and adaptive reuse of built heritage, community participation, integrated risk management, environmental policies, maritime and underwater heritage, participatory spatial planning, and cultural ecosystem services—we recommend reading the papers collected on this page: “Cultural Heritage as a Contributor to Territorial/Urban Resilience”.