Fondazione Santagata, on behalf of the Municipality of Naples, is tasked with preparing the updated Management Plan for the UNESCO World Heritage Site “Historic Centre of Naples”.
Context
The Historic Centre of Naples, inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List, is one of the oldest and most layered urban realities in Europe. Its urban layout preserves the orthogonal grid of the Greek Neapolis alongside subsequent Roman, medieval, Renaissance, and Baroque layers, integrated into the contemporary fabric. Within the perimeter of the Aragonese walls, the site hosts architectural assets of exceptional value—civil, religious, and industrial—that document the historical, social, and functional continuity of the city, in close relationship with the coastal landscape and its artisanal and cultural traditions.
The site has been on the UNESCO World Heritage List since 1995 and underwent minor boundary adjustments in 2011 to include previously unprotected archaeological areas. Following the redefinition of the site’s Buffer Zone, the Municipality of Naples prepared a Management Plan to ensure the protection and enhancement of its Outstanding Universal Value, in connection with the broader cultural and creative context.
Objectives
The project aims to produce a new Management Plan for the UNESCO World Heritage Site “Historic Centre of Naples”, based on an integrated analysis and systematization of existing studies regarding the cultural, urban, social, and economic context, as well as stakeholder and community engagement processes.
The Plan seeks to enhance the Historic Centre as part of an integrated territorial ecosystem, connected to cultural and productive networks and innovation infrastructure, while also developing strategies for the management of tourism flows. It will align with international guidelines, particularly the “5 Cs” of the UNESCO Convention (Credibility, Conservation, Capacity Building, Communication, and Community).
Work Phases
Context Analysis and Data Collection – Develop a clear and comprehensive knowledge framework of the site, identifying its characteristics, needs, and critical issues.
Review and Processing of Previous Consultation Materials – Gather and analyze data from previous studies and participatory activities.
Management Plan Drafting – Define strategies and objectives, identify responsible stakeholders, and outline expected results.
Monitoring Plan Development – Establish a framework to track the implementation of projects and assess the achievement of medium- and long-term objectives outlined in the Management Plan.
