We are aware that determinants of economic growth continue to raise interest both in theoretical and empirical
studies, with research conducted not only at national and regional levels, but also at urban levels, whether for
scientific reasons or as part of research studies intended to provide overview of general situation and bring out
proposals for policy-makers, as is the case of research studies and analyses funded under the ESPON (European
Spatial Planning Observatory Network) Program of the European Commission or by government structures at
national or even local urban levels.