Bridging heritage and citizens: a methodological consultation-based approach

Abstract

This study stems from the contemporary necessity to establish a connection between heritage and citizens, a fundamental element in heritage preservation and the safeguarding of authenticity and identity values. The study bridges the gap between theory and practice by proposing a methodology based on diagnosis and subsequent proposals to bring heritage closer to the local population. The case study used for this purpose has been the city of Seville, Spain, and it primarily focuses on built heritage and the Historic Urban Landscape. The methodology outlined in this article comprises three phases: (1) Survey and Data Collection, involving the design and implementation of a perception-focused survey; (2) Results Analysis and Evaluation, where the obtained data is statistically analysed, subsequently evaluated qualitatively and quantitatively with a proposed a KPI system; (3) Strategic Planning: finally, as a final outcome, the study utilizes the previous evaluation to formulate objectives and an action plan to enhance the local community's heritage relationship. It is expected that the proposed methodology for this case study will be applicable to other similar contexts.