Inclusion of “Made in Italy”. The role of accessibility for the valorization of cultural heritage

Cultural heritage has always been understood as a significant element of the economic, environmental and social system, but it is with the Faro Convention (2005) that its importance as a common good - tangible or intangible - is emphasized. This heritage acquires true relevance the moment humanity is empowered to attribute meanings, uses and values to it; in this respect, therefore, it needs to be accessible to the majority of the community. The extension of the concept of cultural heritage to intangible culture implies that the meaning of inclusion cannot therefore be limited to the accessibility of physical places but must also include access to cultural informations. Majewski and Bunch say full accessibility of a cultural asset goes beyond ramps, bathroom grab bars and access to all floors of the museum, but considers the diversity of people in a wider sense.