The Paradigm of Small Walled Towns. An Advanced Design Driven Approach to Reactivate Cultural Heritage

The article defines the concept of SWaT (Small Walled Towns), identifying them as a paradigm for testing design-driven approaches aimed at enhancing cultural heritage. It serves as an introductory background, highlighting the need for increased scientific attention to this specific context. To this end, the article is developed through literature review and a definitional approach, aiming to open new trajectories for future practices. Following the introduction, a critical literature review offers a concise overview of the development of the research field in design and cultural heritage, with a particular focus on its evolution within the Italian context. In doing so, it proposes a synthesis of recurring approaches, leading to an exploration of the most recent perspectives. The main hypothesis of the research is then presented, defining the hypothesis relative to SWaT. Finally, the article suggests a comprehensive interpretation of the concept of the ‘wall’, exploring its metaphorical and cultural dimensions as design challenge.