Culture in development strategies of small and medium-sized European cities: A comparative analysis

Abstract

In the past decades, many European cities have implemented culture development strategies as a way to respond to economic challenges, but also social, environmental and cultural requirements. Following a relational approach, we focus on the initiatives carry out in four small and medium-sized cities, located in intermediate and rural regions, in distinct European countries (Finland, Portugal, Czech Republic, France and England). Despite their special role and preponderance in European spatial territory, the increase mobility and connectivity of goods, services and people, these small urban these areas are often overlooked.