Old Town of Cáceres


Publications

Onomastics and mobility of the population in Cáceres (13th century-1525)

2026 — Article — WHE91FC00107F

Cáceres' population growth from the 13th to early 16th centuries was driven by diverse immigration, shifting from repopulation needs after Christian conquest to economic and social mobility. Initially dominated by settlers from León, Galicia, and Castile—evident in local toponymy—the later period saw increased diversity, including arrivals from New Castile, Extremadura, Andalusia, and Portugal. While migration no longer structurally benefited the town's population balance, continuous newcomers reinforced Cáceres' prominence in late-medieval Extremadura. The study leverages onomastic analysis to trace demographic mobility patterns, revealing how economic opportunities, noble service, and artisan labor shaped the region's urban development.

Regla 3–30–300: enfoque metodológico SIG–LiDAR para el diagnóstico urbano en Cáceres, España

2026 — Article — WHEB5B37837BC

Urban areas in the Mediterranean face significant environmental risks that necessitate renaturalization efforts. A new study introduces the 'Regla 3-30-300' methodology, which uses LiDAR data and advanced GIS analysis to evaluate urban green infrastructure in Cáceres, Spain. This approach calculates three key indicators: the visibility of greenery between buildings (3), the structure and coverage of vegetation per neighborhood (30), and real pedestrian accessibility to green spaces (300). These indicators are combined into a composite index (0-100) that highlights neighborhoods with higher green coverage and better access, while identifying areas like the historic center and peripheral growth zones as priorities for intervention. This methodology offers a reproducible framework for urban planning and environmental assessment.

El ocio rural durante el siglo XX. El cine San Ildefonso de Salorino (Cáceres) como paradigma de arquitectura de uso modular

2025 — Article — WHE7B3534D50B

A century-old cinema, San Ildefonso in Salorino (Cáceres), exemplifies the evolution of rural leisure through its modular architecture, characterized by superimposed functions reflected in two adjoining spaces with double fronts. The study analyzes the interplay between traditional and refurbished façades and their interior impacts while incorporating documentary and anthropological perspectives. This architectural paradigm offers insights into how rural entertainment adapted over the 20th century, providing a unique lens to understand social and cultural transformations in UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Cáceres.

Residents’ perceptions of tourism and sustainable tourism management: planning to prevent future problems in destination management - The case of Cáceres, Spain

2025 — Article — WHE884A3E58FF

A balanced approach to tourism management can mitigate negative impacts such as gentrification and socio-cultural tensions in UNESCO World Heritage Sites. This study reveals that while residents of Cáceres, Spain, recognize the economic and cultural benefits of tourism, they also express significant concerns about its socio-economic and cultural consequences. Using principal component analysis (PCA) and cluster analysis, researchers correlated these perceptions with socio-demographic factors to propose targeted measures for sustainable urban tourist accommodation. The findings highlight the need for proactive regulation to address community concerns and prevent gentrification, offering insights for responsible integration of short-term rentals in historic urban areas.

The boom of tourist apartments (2019 ‑2024) as a strategy for World Heritage preservation and economic growth in Cáceres (Spain)

2025 — Article — WHE460F839DBD

Cáceres demonstrates how tourist apartments (TAs) can serve as both custodians of cultural heritage and catalysts for economic growth, offering a model for UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The study reveals that the strategic location of TAs within the historic town enhances their economic viability while simultaneously promoting the city's global reputation through architectural features that draw tourists. By analyzing regulations, collecting visual data, and reviewing literature, researchers found that TAs contribute to economic activity by granting local business licenses while showcasing Cáceres' heritage. This synergy between preservation and prosperity positions the city as an exemplary case study for balancing tourism development with cultural conservation.

The Legacy of Helga de Alvear: The Gallery, the Collection, the Museum—A Curatorial and Museographic Approach

2025 — Article — WHE06F7B8B93D

Helga de Alvear's legacy, encapsulated in her vast art collection and the establishment of the Helga de Alvear Museum in Cáceres, significantly shaped the Spanish and international contemporary art landscape. Her collection, comprising over 3000 works with a notable focus on international minimalist art, reflects her personal and professional journey. The study delves into the institutionalization of her legacy, from the creation of the Helga de Alvear Foundation to the development of the museum, highlighting its innovative architecture and museography. This research provides insights into how such initiatives can foster exhibition, research, conservation, and education while transforming urban landscapes.

Acoustic Environment and Urban Sustainable Development in the City of Cáceres

2024 — Conference paper — WHE8A126FEEE2

Research on the Old Town of Cáceres reveals that acoustic environment significantly influences the perception and satisfaction of urban green spaces, despite noise levels being lower than other evaluated features. The study found a strong correlation between noise satisfaction—primarily from road traffic—and overall satisfaction with these areas. This insight underscores the importance of considering environmental noise in sustainable urban development projects, such as expanding green spaces like Parque del Príncipe and connecting them to the Old Town via Paseo de Canovas. The findings suggest that neglecting noise management could hinder achieving sustainable development goals, even in cities with high green area per capita and aesthetic value.

Culture as a Resilient and Sustainable Strategy in Small Cities

2024 — Article — WHEC46D80A7AF

Small cities can mitigate population decline and economic stagnation by investing in culture, as demonstrated by five Spanish case studies. Allariz, Almagro, Astorga, Puigcerdá, and Trujillo have successfully used cultural strategies—such as theater festivals, historical preservation, and identity-driven initiatives—to reverse demographic and economic challenges. Unlike nearby towns facing abandonment, these cities leveraged heritage (e.g., a 17th-century corral de comedia in Almagro or pre-Roman ruins in Trujillo) to foster resilience, improve quality of life, and boost local economies. The study highlights culture as a sustainable development model for small urban centers worldwide.

Information sources and tourism heritage: a sustainable economy perspective

2024 — Article — WHEFFB0F556E6

A positive relationship exists between the sources of information tourists use and their satisfaction with heritage tourism experiences, influencing future behavioral intentions. Conducted in Cáceres, Spainthis study applies descriptive analysis to survey data, revealing that tourist motivations are pivotal in shaping overall experience and loyalty. The findings underscore the importance of leveraging modern communication technologies and integrated planning for sustainable heritage development, aligning with UN Agenda 2030 goals. This research offers novel evidence on how information sources impact tourist behavior in a World Heritage context, providing actionable insights for heritage tourism strategies.

Tuñón Arquitectos. Museo d’Arte Contemporanea Helga De Alvear, Cáceres, Spagna

2024 — Article — WHE7FE6BC6385

A white concrete structure, the Helga de Alvear Museum of Contemporary Art in Cáceres, Spain, serves as a bridge between ancient and contemporary architectural elements. This museum, designed by Tuñón Arquitectos, emerges from the historic fabric of the city, fostering a dialogue through its principles of rootedness and abstraction. The structure's 'fragile' appearance contrasts with the solidity of Cáceres' ancient walls, symbolizing the dynamic interplay between history and modernity. This architectural approach highlights the potential for contemporary design to engage with and enhance UNESCO World Heritage Sites by balancing tradition and innovation.

Caminhando Pelo Centro Histórico de Cáceres-Mt: Percepções de um Devaneio Urbano

2023 — Article — WHE1A88454C4D

A comparative analysis of Cáceres' historic center reveals discrepancies between preserved buildings and international heritage preservation guidelines, including the Venice Charter, Amsterdam Declaration, and Washington Charter. The study, conducted through a non-structured walk documenting current conditions against documented historical descriptions, highlights a need for deeper investigation into local preservation practices and educational incentives to address abandonment and neglect.

Responsabilidad Social Corporativa y resultados económicos en el sector turístico. Un estudio en Cáceres (España)

2023 — Article — WHEBE20210AF7

Tourism in Cáceres, a UNESCO World Heritage City, can achieve long-term environmental and economic sustainability if industry professionals and public managers collaborate on coordinated strategies. This study links Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) with tourism outcomes by analyzing tourist perceptions of sustainability issues through a structured questionnaire. Findings suggest that aligning responsible behavior among businesses and administrations is key to balancing economic results with environmental stewardship, reflecting broader attitudinal shifts in the sector.

Exploring the Hotel Experience in a Cultural City through a UGC Analysis

2022 — Article — WHE88663FFAC4

Hotels in Cáceres, a UNESCO World Heritage City, are highly valued by tourists for their location, service quality, and price, according to an analysis of Tripadvisor reviews. The study used Big Data techniques on user-generated content (UGC) to identify key attributes that influence guest satisfaction, revealing positive evaluations across these dimensions. Recommendations for hotel managers include emphasizing communication strategies around location, quality, and pricing to maintain competitiveness. This research highlights the potential of UGC analysis in tourism, offering actionable insights for stakeholders while underscoring the importance of Big Data analytics in shaping market positioning.

Investigating Change in the Willingness to Pay for a More Sustainable Tourist Destination in a World Heritage City

2022 — Article — WHE4E31AD3FEF

No significant change was detected in tourists' willingness to pay for more sustainable tourism services in Cáceres between 2012 and 2016. The study, which analyzed survey data using logistic regression and Chow tests, found that only the level of education influenced this willingness, while factors such as origin, gender, and age did not. These findings suggest that broader debates on sustainability may not have substantially increased tourists' financial support for sustainable practices in this context. The authors propose establishing a 'municipal observatory of sustainable tourism' to monitor and potentially enhance this behavior.

Nuevas aportaciones al conocimiento de Norba Caesarina. Excavaciones en la Calle Adarve del Cristo nº 10 (Cáceres, Extremadura)

2022 — Article — WHE3027DF23EE

A rare archaeological intervention within the walled historic center of Cáceres, Spain, has shed light on the city's layered past. The 2015 excavation at Calle Adarve del Cristo nº 10 uncovered distinct chronological phases, offering a unique glimpse into Norba Caesarina's evolution. Unlike most studies focused outside the ancient walls, this research analyzed facies and artifacts within the fortified core, revealing critical insights into the city's development. The study employed urgent archaeological methods to document and interpret the findings, providing foundational data for understanding Cáceres' complex history.

Patrimônio histórico - Diagnóstico sobre as edificações na poligonal tombada de Cáceres-MT

2022 — Article — WHEDAC7DD699D

A significant disparity in land value between the historic center and surrounding areas of Cáceres, Brazil, underscores the economic importance of preserving its UNESCO-listed heritage. Research reveals that properties within the protected zone are valued at R$567/m² on average, compared to just R$135/m² in adjacent neighborhoods like Bairros Cavalhada and Cohab Velha. The study analyzed 191 buildings, finding that while most (26.7%) serve residential functions, a substantial portion (26.18%) are used for service provision, with commercial use accounting for 18.32%. Conservation status varies widely: 50.8% of structures are in good condition, 34% in regular state, and 15.2% in poor condition. This analysis highlights the urgent need for targeted conservation efforts to balance economic potential with historical preservation.

Sustainability Assessment through Urban Accessibility Indicators and GIS in a Middle-Sized World Heritage City: The Case of Cáceres, Spain

2022 — Article — WHEFF77A1C6A2

A sustainability assessment of Cáceres, Spainreveals that the city performs well in accessibility to key public services such as bus stops, schools, health centers, and waste management facilities. However, significant improvements are needed for bike parking coverage, cycling infrastructure, and access to sports and specialized waste collection services. The study, using GIS tools and urban indicators aligned with Spain's Urban Sustainability Strategy (EESUL), found minimal disparity between the historic center and the broader city, suggesting that sustainability in accessibility is not hindered by historic conservation constraints. This approach offers valuable insights for local planners, though it requires substantial initial data, limiting its broader applicability.

Urban Equity as a Challenge for the Southern Europe Historic Cities: Sustainability-Urban Morphology Interrelation through GIS Tools

2022 — Article — WHEBC4B20D3CD

A study of Cáceres reveals that historical urban zones exhibit strong correlations with key sustainability indicators such as density, compactness, acoustic comfort, and streetscape proportions. Using GIS tools and a 1-hectare grid pattern analysis, researchers analyzed land use, public space, mobility, and urban complexity across the historic center (PCH) and the broader city. Findings highlight how urban morphology influences sustainability outcomes, offering new insights for Southern European heritage cities. While some indicators require further investigation, the study underscores the potential of geoinformation tools to enhance urban equity in mid-sized historical cities. A notable knowledge gap was identified regarding the integration and practical application of open data from multiple public administrations.

Legislación e Instrumentos de Preservación

2021 — Article — WHEDF9C312100

A study of Cáceres, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with roots dating to 1778, reveals significant gaps in municipal legislation aimed at preserving its historic, architectural, and landscape heritage. Despite the city's designation as a historical patrimony by IPHAN in 2010, only partial legislative measures have been implemented. While a Master Plan exists, critical complementary laws supporting preservation strategies remain unenacted. The research analyzed federal legislation, urban statutes, and municipal laws, alongside materials from the development of a Normative Instruction draft for the historic center and updates to the city's Master Plan. Findings underscore the need for stronger legal frameworks to effectively safeguard Cáceres' cultural heritage.

Accessible itinerary through Cáceres monumental city

2020 — Article — WHE66570F513B

A groundbreaking approach to accessible tourism has been developed for Cáceres, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its monumental architecture and cultural significance. The study proposes targeted measures to enhance accessibility across the city's diverse topographical challenges, including irregular pavements and steep terrain, thereby enabling more inclusive visitation for individuals with varying mobility needs—such as those using wheelchairs, or experiencing visual, auditory, or cognitive impairments. These improvements prioritize universal design principles, ensuring that accessibility benefits not only people with disabilities but also the broader public, aligning with the site's heritage value while addressing practical barriers to tourism.

Arborização e Desenho Urbano uma Análise no Centro Histórico de Cáceres-MT

2020 — Article — WHE3BF1A689B2

A study of Cáceres' historic center reveals significant potential for urban greening, with 56.79% of the 127 inventoried trees being native species and only 11.6% conflicting with electrical wiring. Despite 61.42% of trees being in healthy condition, 38.58% showed signs of mechanical damage or pests. The research highlights the need for standardized paving, wider sidewalks, and suitable tree species to mitigate issues like root damage to pavements, which are currently under-maintained. This analysis provides a foundation for implementing an urban arborization plan that balances historical preservation with modern urban design needs.

Culinary Tourism as An Effective Strategy for a Profitable Cooperation between Agriculture and Tourism

2020 — Article — WHE8739224DD5

Modern tourists' growing interest in food and traditional gastronomy can significantly boost rural economies, particularly through culinary tourism. A study of 720 visitors to Cáceres, Spain, revealed that such tourists—often with above-average incomes—are more likely to integrate local products into their diets long-term, benefiting agricultural sectors sustainably. This challenges conventional tourism-agriculture relationships by positioning culinary experiences as a key driver for cooperation, offering valuable insights for destination management and marketing strategies.

Los apartamentos turísticos de la ciudad de Cáceres: Rehabilitación y refuncionalización del centro histórico

2020 — Article — WHEF469CF787A

Between 2010 and 2019, the exponential growth of tourist apartments in Cáceres' historic center reshaped its housing landscape. This surge in short-term rentals coincided with a decline in traditional accommodations, while also sparking controversy among residents. The study confirms that this trend has driven both rehabilitation efforts and functional reconfiguration within the UNESCO-listed Old Town of Cáceres, highlighting the dual impact of tourism on heritage conservation and local communities.

The Effects of Gentrification on the Elderly: A Case Study in the City of Cáceres

2020 — Article — WHE4A091A6226

Gentrification driven by tourism in Cáceres adversely affects the psychological, social, and emotional well-being of elderly residents. The study found significant disparities between gentrified and non-gentrified neighborhoods, with older adults experiencing increased family dependency, social disconnection, and a negative perception of their environment. This research highlights the broader impact of tourism-led gentrification on active aging in medium-sized cities, moving beyond large urban contexts. Using qualitative methods—specifically 32 in-depth interviews—the study compared two neighborhoods to reveal these effects, offering insights into how global tourism trends reshape local communities and challenge the well-being of vulnerable populations.

Perceptions and effects of the acoustic environment in quiet residential areas

2017 — Article — WHED153D26FA7

In quiet residential areas, the absence of daytime noise significantly enhances overall urban environmental perception more than even the sense of security. Road traffic remains the most annoying noise source, but its impact on annoyance and sleep disturbance is lower compared to previous studies with similar sound exposure levels. This study analyzed sound levels and surveyed residents' and passers-by perceptions in Cáceres' old town, revealing that low-intensity noise pollution and characteristic soundmarks like bells and birds also contribute to annoyance despite their positive acoustic environment.

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