Greening Heritage: Sustainable Interventions in the Historic Center of Naples

Abstract

The historical center of Naples is the epicenter of about three millennia of architecture, culture and urban development; being a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Though a lot of research has been done over its architectural and cultural values, still, there is a lack of light when it comes to the purpose of green spaces in such a densely built-in society and how much they contribute to the well-being of the community, how their presence is linked to environmental sustainability, and spatial resilience. This paper fills this vacuum by focusing on spatial and environmental features of historic center of Naples to assess the scope of introducing green infrastructure to the existing urban setting. The investigation of means of revitalizing the historic center is carried out using a multi-methodological approach to reach experimental Temporary Landscape interventions. The work highlights short-term actions that improve the resilience of the environment and improve social life without damaging the cultural heritage, architectural designs, and values of the community by providing a replicable framework to other urban centres in the same situation.