Architectural and cultural heritage as a driver of social change in rural areas: 10 years (2009–2019) of management and recovery in Huete, a town of Cuenca, Spain

A decade of heritage management in Huete, Spain, demonstrates that architectural and cultural preservation can drive significant social change in rural areas. The study found that targeted restoration efforts and community engagement not only revitalized historic buildings but also fostered local empowerment, innovation, and economic growth through tourism. Researchers used Participatory Impact Pathway Analysis (PIPA) and Positive Social Change (PSC) frameworks to assess the impact of the Fundación Huete Futuro's initiatives between 2009 and 2019. The results revealed that integrating social participation into heritage planning shifted local perceptions, turning cultural assets into tools for development while promoting sustainable rural growth.

Quintana, D. C., Díaz-Puente, J. M., & Gallego-Moreno, F. (2022). Architectural and cultural heritage as a driver of social change in rural areas: 10 years (2009–2019) of management and recovery in Huete, a town of Cuenca, Spain. Land Use Policy, 115, 106017. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.landusepol.2022.106017