Links between heritage and social capital
In the seminal work on social capital focusing on Italian regions, Putnam et al. (1993)
pointed to the fact that the resources of social capital are dependent upon long-term
historical development processes. The strength of social capital reflected in the density
and quality of social links and networks in a given area may thus beits heritage per se.
The feeling of connectedness, trust and the existence of traditional ways of transmitting
skills as well as the wealth of traditional craft, production and agricultural activities may
constitute basis for the development of selected industries and creative activities in
certain historic regions, being an important asset for local development.