The Role of Cultural Heritage in the Development of Small Towns in Burgenland

Abstract

The purpose of the study. To examine the factors that influence the innovative and sustainable use of cultural heritage in small towns and the contribution of cultural heritage protection to the development of small towns. Applied methods. Literature review including the history of small town in Burgenland and the evolution of the concept of cultural heritage. We involved sources from monographies, census records and own experiencies of study trips. The research framework is Burgenland's small towns. Outcomes. The study highlights the specificity of the concept of cultural heritage in Central-Europe, in which the economic-socio-environmental classification of theories is also valid. The opportunity for culture-based development of small towns in Burgenland is presented as an opportunity, requiring an integrated approach: the strategic use of cultural resources in development is presented as an economic potential.