Heritage and Cultural Tourism: Integrated Approach, Creativity and Innovation to Face the Challenges of Sustainability

Cultural tourism can play an important role in achieving the EU’s objectives for smart, sustainable and inclusive growth, as well as in contributing to the definition of possible paths of sustainable development considering its four dimensions (environment, economics, society and culture). When conceived in a perspective of virtuous relationships with the natural and cultural heritage (tangible and intangible) and with the human and social capital of local communities, it can strengthen local traditions, protect the environment and boost local employment. In the light of these remarks, with reference to the opportunities of the EU Programming Framework, the paper proposes numerous closely related issues that require a forward-looking, broader and integrated approach able to develop strategies leading to effective regional and local development policies through innovation and creativity