Beyond tourism: recovery of the historical and artistic heritage of Havana

Declared by UNESCO “World Heritage” in 1982, The Habana Vieja is the largest historic center of colonial type stored in Latin America and even today retains its traditional urban footprint, harmonious juxtaposition of different architectural styles. Through this paper we want to analyze the work of recovering the historical center of Habana, officially launched in 1994 through the Master Plan entrusted “Historian of the Oficina de la Ciudad de La Habana” with the Spanish Agency for International Cooperation, the Government Local, universities and associations for international cooperation. Twenty years after the start of this project is to assess whether it was put into play an effective movement of regeneration, having produced processes of participation and human resource development and economic premises, or if the risk was to be alone “staged” for tourists, rearranging some houses and central services attractive major, “just as they once were” only to recall nostalgically the past and recreate “typical situations”, imposed by mass tourism. There are many initiatives promoted from Italy, with the aim of creating opportunities for exchange and promotion of local sustainable development. As regards planning are promoted action as land resource management, planning, recovery of the historical-artistic heritage and urban services to enhance the identity of this country and encourage the participation of local communities. The historical, architectural and cultural heritage must be seen not only as “merchandise to show” but as a fundamental element for sustainable development from the perspective of social and environmental as well as economic, intended as a resource to protect and manage flexible and sustainable way to generate new opportunities, jobs and sources of income. If “pilot district”, (near the Plaza de Armas) is promoted restoration in style as a “showcase” for the mass tourists, in other popular and industrial districts (barrios San Isidro, Habana del Este, Marianao, Guanabacoa, and San Miguel del Padron) interesting workshops are promoted redevelopment with the participation of local communities. Cuba is a needy country but with potential and tourism is a key resource, but if it’s not properly channeled, may be detrimental to the identity. It’s important to guide their choices towards sustainable development and to engage in a process of urban regeneration through technical engagement and social participation.