Cultural Heritage as Location Factor

The "cultural heritage" of a country is an important identification factor: a Eurobarometer survey showed that almost three quarters of Austrians are proud of the country's cultural heritage. Austria's cultural heritage is also one of the most important reasons for local and foreign guests to visit Austria. Also, it is a factor of consideration for companies in choosing their place of business. This study attempts to assess the significance of Austria's cultural heritage, represented by the country's buildings listed under monument protection, as a "location factor". At the municipal level, it shows a positive correlation between (the number of) monuments and the structure and development of tourism indicators, as well as with the demographic and economic structure of regions. Four case studies complete the positive evidence.