Beyond Culture and Tourism: Conservation and Reuse of Architectural Heritage in a Productive Perspective

Despite tourism and culture being the most affected by the pandemic, these sectors continue to play a significant role in most Italian economic policies, such as the National Recovery and Resilience Plan. These policy strategies traditionally look at architectural heritage only as a resource in terms of tourism accommodations, museums and facilities, or as an element which is helpful in reinforcing local identity. But is it possible to imagine an alternative role for historical buildings? The present paper proposes a reflection on a change of perspective on architectural heritage that goes beyond pre-established narratives tying historical buildings exclusively to tourist and cultural uses. In addition, the author presents an ongoing didactic experience on conservation and reuse of historical buildings connected to work and production. Mills, oil mills, spinning mills and old factories represent material evidence of an alternative economic system which, if wisely reactivated in a productive way, also through innovative design, can represent a new paradigm of socio-economic development.