Socio-spatial impact of cultural tourism in world heritage cities

The case of Salamanca

Abstract

This article analyzes the impact of cultural tourism on the urban and local development of Salamanca, addressing its economic, sociocultural and territorial dimensions. The research adopts a mixed-method approach that combines quantitative analysis, based on official sta­tistics on population, tourism and urban development, with a qualitative perspective suppor­ted by an extensive literature review and semi-structured interviews with key stakeholders from the tourism sector and the local community. The results indicate that, although tourism has consolidated Salamanca as a leading cultural destination and contributed to economic growth, job creation and diversification of the cultural offer, it has also generated adverse effects on the urban and social fabric. Among the most significant impacts are the gentrifi­cation of the historic center, increased pressure on the housing market, the displacement of local residents and the declining quality of life for certain groups, particulary young people and students. Tourism overcrowding, coupled with the limited integration between urban and heritage planning, has strained the city’s carrying capacity and jeopardized the long-term sustainability of the current model. The study highlights the need to advance towards a more balanced management model that aligns urban planning with social and environmental sus­tainability, civic participation and the implementation of Smart Tourism tools. Overall, this research contributes to the ongoing debate on the sustainability of heritage destinations, pro­posing a transition towards an intelligent tourism model that ensures the hability, resilience and preservation of Salamanca’s cultural heritage.