The progressive cultural district for local growth: the case of the Marche region

This paper aims to analyze the most recent results of the progressive cultural district model. In particular, it explores what the Marche Region has achieved in terms of improving the cultural heritage. The system of values referring to the heritage can be related to local development in order to increase territorial competitiveness. One of the tools developed in recent years is the progressive cultural district, which recognises a strategic connection between different cultural areas belonging to various production sectors. The progressive cultural district is characterised by a complex organisational structure that involves various subjects interested in the local development process. If the cultural sector is identified as a bearer of development, the architectural heritage must also be assessed according to different logic. A proper program creates a series of opportunities to produce value in terms of innovation. In an initial phase, the construction of the Marche Cultural District has been oriented towards knowledge of the cultural heritage in order to highlight its potential values. With this knowledge, a second phase has begun in favour of new territorial planning. Forms of cooperation in creating the shared objectives system can give rise to a transformation process that allows for increasing orientation towards a new economic policy for the protection and improvement of the cultural heritage.