The second ROCK case studies booklet showcases the innovative work of five cities testing new tools to open up opportunities for citizen engagement and social inclusion through cultural heritage.

Cities have come to realise that to achieve the best results, local governments have to work together with civil society at large. Many local authorities are creating opportunities for citizens to get involved in heritage-led urban development projects and to bring their expertise and experience of the city to these projects.

The University of Bologna, situated in the historic centre of the city, is one of the oldest in Europe. This provides many opportunities – as well as many challenges. Many different communities – students, residents, tourists and business owners – cross paths without always understanding or interacting with each other. With the ROCK living lab, the municipality of Bologna is experimenting with collaborative practices in the area.

In Eindhoven, the former gas works area of the city is being redeveloped, with end-users at the heart of the process. Citizens are getting involved in making decisions and being given more responsibilities and are, as a result, committing more strongly to the process of co-creation.

Turin decided to take inspiration from what was happening in its neighbourhoods. With the network of public spaces, Casa del Quartiere, in place, associations, citizens and artistic and cultural operators are working together to transform abandoned buildings and vacant land and foster community spirit and the creation of social enterprises.

Read the new ROCK case studies booklet lnow to find out more about these and other inspiring examples of participatory approaches and social inclusion in cultural heritage.

Access the publication here: https://indd.adobe.com/view/4c399cc1-0836-488c-83d4-fe21588c819b