The Design of Contemporary Architecture Touristic Routes

Abstract

[EN] Cultural tourism is an activity with the capacity to create sustainable development from its three economic, social and environmental pillars. Cultural tourism has the capacity to contribute to local development and employment generation, which requires the participation of different local agents. On the other hand, the knowledge and enjoyment of local heritage contribute to a greater appreciation of heritage, increase identity and empower society, which, in turn, stimulates and favours the implementation of resources for its conservation. This paper explores the necessary conditions for the design of tourist routes based on contemporary architecture. The design of the routes requires a prior diagnosis of the possibilities of the different buildings in terms of their heritage value, attractiveness, accessibility and state of conservation. In addition, it is necessary to create interpretation materials that allow for the enjoyment of the visit and to make proposals for routes that take into account not only the buildings¿ characteristics but also aspects such as themes, degree of accessibility or location, among others. This work is part of a research project financed by Generalitat Valenciana, whose objective is to enhance the value of Modern and Contemporary Architecture in the Valencian Community. At present, the region has an important cultural attraction. The iconic buildings or those of internationally famous architects are well known. Still, there is also local architecture, which, although not as spectacular as that which forms part of the current tourist routes, has heritage value and can be of interest to visitors and tourists. Focusing on this lesserknown local architecture, this paper shows the work carried out with the aim of designing routes based on contemporary architecture.