What development for the Prespa region?

What development for the Prespa region? Cultural issues and heritage conservation for the enhancement of local identity and as a catalyst for sustainable development

Author
Daniele ROMAGNOLI
Affiliation
PhD IDAUP / University of Ferrara, Italy

Abstract
Assessing the development of an area requires a thorough understanding of its identity, in order to prevent the economic growth from distorting the peculiarities of the site. In this sense, a strategic project for the Prespa region, and particularly the municipality of Pustec, must adopt a holistic approach, seeking to manage as many aspects of the development process as possible.
Economic development must be assessed, and consequently guided, with consideration of its impact (cost-benefit) also on the region heritage. Firstly, the impact that an infrastructural, touristic and social development may have on the natural heritage must be evaluated, assessing how the territory will be altered by new roads and urbanization, taking into account both the preservation of natural beauty and the environmental effects on the lake ecosystem. Secondly, the effects on cultural heritage, including the numerous archaeological sites and Byzantine cave churches, should be assessed to ensure their sustainable preservation and fruition.
Additionally, it should also be examined the impact of the development on the material and immaterial culture of the places. The spread of alternative lifestyles and of increasingly easier connections with the outside world may lead to the decline of traditional customs, affecting not only social dynamics but also architectural and cultural practices. In many cases, rapid development in previously isolated areas results in the abandonment of vernacular architecture in favor of standardized models. Therefore, evaluating sustainable development in the region involves considering the distinctive architectural aspects of the Prespa region and exploring ways to preserve and enhance them to establish a unique identity for the area, including for tourism, while respecting its genius loci.