Using fortifications for tourism : can conservation objectives be reconciled with financial sustainability?

Abstract

Urban heritage is sometimes perceived to be a constraint to economic and social development. Experience in many cities shows that historic buildings and areas can be turned into an opportunity if there is careful planning. In the paper, two case studies are discussed. The first is the Suomenlinna Sea Fortress, Helsinki, Finland, and the second is Fort St. Elmo, Valletta, Malta. At Suomenlinna, a process spanning several decades has successfully reconciled the needs of conservation of the historic monument with the sustenance of a residential community. For Fort St. Elmo, the paper explains how decisions on the rehabilitation and reuse were based on well-defined objectives. By comparing the two case studies, the paper draws some useful lessons. Conservation can best be achieved if there is a long term vision and if the process is under the control of a single agency, while involving relevant stakeholders. Another lesson is how the tourism potential of a historic monument can be used to approach financial sustainability while safeguarding its conservation.