The Italian Agency for Development Cooperation in Jordan

In Jordan, the conservation and valorization of cultural heritage plays an important role in enhancing social cohesion and enriching understanding of the past, in that it addresses the identity and integrity of sites of cultural and historical interest, and works towards valorizing living heritage assets. The rehabilitation of artefacts and heritage sites, as well as strategies directed at the conservation of the urban fabric, also indirectly impact livelihoods within local communities. These actions result in increasingly appealing assets, which then attract potential visitors. This, in turn, allows for profitable, visitor-oriented activities that can boost the tourist industry. Such socio-economic connectivity provides a foundation upon which the quality of life of local residents can be improved. In the long term, it can lead to an increase in inclusivity, in the response capacity of women and children to vulnerability, the adaptability of investments and, ultimately, the development of sustainable tourism policies and strategies, based on changes in consumer preferences, which would work to bolster recovery.