Patrimônio histórico e desenvolvimento turístico: representações e ações dos agentes na reconstrução de Areia

Abstract

The Historic, urban and landscaping set of Areia was spot listed nationally in 2006, and today, it is going through a reconstruction process based on representations and actions done by social agents and institutions from all over the territory. This study analyzed the material and symbolic reconstruction of historical heritage sites that have generated debates and proceedings about it s conservation and revitalization and its significance for the fomentation of touristic activities with the aim of local development and promotion. The different agents participate of the sites reconstruction attributing to the historic center importance for the fomentation of activities capable of enabling the economic growth, improvement on the social condition of the habitants and the preservation of local cultural identity. The research was plural-methodological: on one side, qualitative methodology with structured and semistructured interviews directed to the representatives of Friends Association of Areia (AMAR), entrepreneurs, representatives of official preservation organs ( National Institute of Historical and Artistic Heritage IPHAN - , and the Institute of Historical and Artistic Heritage of Paraiba IPHAEP), and the Departments of Administrations and Tourism of Areia. On the other side, one quantitative methodology with researching of data that confirm changes on population behavior towards the use of spot listed sites. The established dynamics between these agents proved relationship of cooperation and conflicts searching to the conservation and revitalization of the built heritage of Areia.