La mise en valeur del patrimonio fortificato: il modello francese

The article begins with a brief discussion on the economic dimension of cultural heritage, focusing on the closely interrelated concepts of ‘enhancement’ and ‘management.’ With specific reference to fortified heritage, it reviews several tools and initiatives implemented over the past decade to promote the mise en valeur of such heritage. The analysis then focuses on a management model deemed exemplary in this context: the heritage of the Loire Valley castles in France, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This enlightened management model successfully combines heritage preservation with its promotion, adopting a dynamic, territorial, and systemic perspective. The study highlights the importance of a collaborative approach involving public entities, private stakeholders, and local communities, aimed at integrating conservation, sustainability, and public enjoyment. The French model, characterized by innovation and foresight, emerges as a potential reference for the sustainable management of Italian fortified heritage.