Small historic centers in Italy are a fundamental part of the national identity, acting as custodians of cultural heritage and local traditions. However, in recent decades, these centers have faced increasing challenges related to depopulation, aging infrastructure, and limited economic opportunities. In this context, tourism emerges as one of the few viable paths for revitalization, particularly in regions like central and southern Italy. Yet, the seismic vulnerability of many of these areas threatens both the preservation of built heritage and the development of sustainable tourist flows.

Italy’s economy benefits significantly from cultural tourism, which is no longer limited to iconic destinations but increasingly oriented toward smaller towns rich in history and authenticity. Unfortunately, the central Apennine regions have been severely affected by the seismic sequences of 2009 (L’Aquila) and 2016 (Central Italy), which triggered not only structural collapses but also long-term socio-economic consequences, including the abandonment of entire town centers. In response, comprehensive reconstruction plans have been carried out, including targeted seismic interventions at the level of individual buildings and aggregates. The strengthening of historic buildings is not only a technical objective but also a strategic one, as safety improvements can positively influence a site's attractiveness for tourism and economic development.

This contribution explores the interdependence between seismic vulnerability and tourism development through the case study of Popoli Terme (Pescara, Abruzzo), a historic town heavily affected by the 2009 earthquake. The town has recently benefited from multiple public initiatives, including a municipal Reconstruction Plan and dedicated funding for the seismic improvement of damaged building aggregates. The work investigates how such interventions may have contributed to a measurable reduction in the seismic vulnerability of the historic center. The case of Popoli Terme offers a valuable opportunity to explore how seismic risk mitigation and heritage conservation may support strategies for sustainable economic regeneration in marginal territories, particularly through the enhancement of cultural tourism.

This study has been carried out within the framework of the project GENESIS – Seismic Risk Management for the Touristic Valorisation of the Historical Centers of Southern Italy, funded by PON MIUR “Research and Innovation” 2014–2020 and FSC, under D.D. 13/07/2017 n. 1735, within the area of Industrial Research and Experimental Development Projects in the 12 Smart Specialization Areas – Cultural Heritage (Project Code ARS01_00883).