Modelling Resilience to Floods in Art Cities: A Historical Perspective

A study on the Historic Centre of Florence reveals that while flood countermeasures have slightly reduced inundation extent and depths by 7%, they have paradoxically increased building exposure by 17% due to gentrification. However, these measures have significantly improved resilience, cutting post-event recovery time by 21%. The research also highlights a dramatic increase in fluctuating population exposure (+1511%), driven by cultural heritage's dual role—attracting tourists while fostering recovery efforts. Future mitigations are expected to further reduce flood hazards and exposure for residents and visitors, emphasizing the complex interplay between urban development, tourism, and disaster preparedness.

Arrighi, C., & Castelli, F. (2025). Modelling Resilience to Floods in Art Cities: A Historical Perspective. Journal of Flood Risk Management, 18(2). Portico. https://doi.org/10.1111/jfr3.70018