Regeneration of Historical Urban Landscapes in the Hinterland of Marche Region

Abstract

The hinterland of Marche region has been declining for a long time, mainly due to the process of littoralization, ongoing phenomenon worldwide that represents a great challenge for planners and policy-makers. Increasing urbanization, seasonal mass tourism and overall growing of human pressure are just some of the issues affecting the coast. Vice versa, dramatic depopulation, economic depression and abandonment of rural activities are just some of those affecting the hinterland. In many places, this trend has become chronic, almost irreversible. Few models of regional development have barely stopped it. Most frequently, the historical villages, towns and the related landscape heritage, so peculiar and precious in the hinterland of Marche region, just further decay. After the earthquakes of 2016, the Marche Regional Council has commissioned a research team of five Italian universities to draft a strategic programme aimed at regenerating the hinterland. Supported by local authorities, scholars and experts in different fields, however related to regional and spatial planning, have made a joint effort to conceive possible solutions to the long-lasting crisis of these areas, which started in fact long before the recent earthquakes. The programme highlights the unexplored potential and resources of the hinterland, promoting a polycentric, integrated and synergistic model of development. In this framework and spirit outlined in the first part of the paper, and from Heritage Urbanism perspective, the focus shifts onto the case study of Camerino, outstanding example of urban heritage, exploring issues and options for different approaches and intervention models to regenerate the historical urban landscapes.