Abstract

NOVO MALVAREZ, Margarita. New uses of heritage sites: the expansion of boutique hotels in Palma (Mallorca). Estoa [online]. 2019, vol.8, n.16, pp.155-178. ISSN 1390-9274.  https://doi.org/10.18537/est.v008.n016.a07.

Urban policies aimed at promoting tourism in Palma from the year 2000 onwards have had an impact on heritage conservation and uses. The proliferation of boutique hotels in unique buildings in the old town is a direct consequence of these policies as well as the gentrification being seen in the city. The main aims of this paper are to analyse new dynamics linked to urban tourism and, in particular, the rising number of hotels in the historic centre. This includes a dual-scale impact evaluation showing the effects on how heritage is used and how the historic centre functions as a city.

The current urban-tourist dynamic is placing some heritage locations at risk, including decontextualisation and loss of identity. This leads us to believe that we are currently at a key moment for re-thinking the city and opening up new debates on the interaction between heritage sites and tourism in Palma. These discussions should move towards implementing measures that ensure the continuity and sustainability of heritage sites, whilst valuing their diversity.

Keywords : boutiquization; historical city; gentrification; boutique hotels; Palma.

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