Reference legislation

The protection and enhancement of the Historic Center of Naples – UNESCO Site are based on a solid regulatory framework, which combines UNESCO’s international provisions with Italian national laws.

These instruments define principles, criteria, and procedures to ensure the conservation of the site’s Outstanding Universal Value, guiding management policies and ensuring that all interventions are consistent with international standards and the specificities of the local context.

UNESCO: Operational Guidelines for the Implementation of the World Heritage Convention

The Operational Guidelines are the official document adopted by the World Heritage Committee to explain how to apply the 1972 Convention Concerning the Protection of the World Cultural and Natural Heritage.

They serve to:

– Define the criteria for inscribing a property on the World Heritage List.

– Establish procedures for the submission of nominations and their evaluation.

– Provide guidance for the management, monitoring, and conservation of inscribed sites.

– Describe the concept of Outstanding Universal Value, a fundamental requirement for inscription.

– Indicate the obligation for each site to have a Management Plan or an equivalent management system.The Guidelines are updated periodically to reflect the decisions of the Committee and new conservation requirements.

Source: UNESCO World Heritage Centre – The Operational Guidelines for the Implementation of the World Heritage Convention

Law 77/2006

Law 77/2006 (“Special measures for the protection and enjoyment of Italian sites and elements of cultural, landscape, and environmental interest included in the World Heritage List and placed under the protection of UNESCO”) is the national law that:

– Recognizes the symbolic value and uniqueness of Italian sites and elements included in the UNESCO Lists.
– Extends protection to elements of intangible cultural heritage (since 2017, in implementation of the 2003 UNESCO Convention).
– Makes it mandatory to draw up and adopt a Management Plan for each Italian UNESCO site.
– Provides for state funding for projects aimed at protection, enhancement, promotion, and sustainable use.
– Establishes that priorities for action are defined in the Management Plans.
– Establishes an Advisory Committee for Management Plans and Local Tourism Systems.

Examples of eligible actions:

– Studies and research for conservation.
– Reception and information services for the public.
– Improvement of mobility and accessibility.
– Cultural and tourist promotion.
– Enhancement of local traditions and food and wine heritage.