RESTORING THE CITY CENTER, PLANNING AND POLICIES

Abstract

The Intervention on urban fabric and open spaces in the historical city. The article describes the restoration process of Palermo’s historical centre. The process has been discontinuous and fragmented, so that presently, extremely degraded urban areas still coexist with highly desirable areas characterized by first-rate restoration. Palermo’s experience with urban revitalization and development of an impoverished historical city centre demonstrates the need for urban planning that is systematically supported by effective public policies and that never loses sight of preserving the soul of the city.