Analysis of the Reuse of Architectural Heritage to Cultural Tourism Sustainability

Abstract

This article aims to analyze the relationship between the reuse of architectural heritage to cultural tourism sustainability. The study was conducted in the ancient province of Piedade, Alentejo/Algarve, Portugal in particular Capuchin monasteries in this region. To achieve the goals, there was a survey, putting in parallel the convents that were reused or turned into hotels, museums or other tourist equipment. The methodology used was based on qualitative approach, through the method of photo-elicitation and content analysis from semi-structured interviews with those responsible for the investigated areas, as well as on-site observation. The theoretical framework was made up of cultural tourism studies, sustainable tourism and architectural heritage. The result showed that the reuse of built heritage contributed positively to the sustainability of cultural tourism.