**Preface**

In an era marked by unprecedented urbanization and a growing emphasis on sustainability, "Sustainability in Heritage and Urban Planning" emerges as a beacon of knowledge within the overlapping fields of urban development and heritage preservation. The global landscape is rapidly transforming, presenting us with multifaceted challenges that demand innovative solutions capable of harmonizing the preservation of our cultural heritage with the imperative of sustainable urban growth.

The inception of this e-book can be traced back to a profound recognition of the urgent need to comprehensively address these challenges. The endeavor is rooted in the understanding that urban areas are not isolated entities; they are intricate ecosystems interwoven with their cultural heritage. Neglecting this intrinsic relationship jeopardizes not only the cultural legacy of our past but also the environmental viability of our future.

In this context, the volume serves as a pivotal reference for scholars, practitioners, and policymakers seeking a multifaceted understanding of the intricate interplay between sustainability and heritage within the realm of urban planning. Comprising 30 diverse articles penned by esteemed experts in the field, this volume offers a comprehensive exploration of the topic, encompassing the breadth and depth of contemporary research.

Within these pages, we have assembled a remarkable collection of articles, each delving into a distinct facet of the complex relationship between sustainability and heritage in urban planning. These contributions range from the examination of traditional architectural strategies in vernacular housing to the evaluation of urban sustainability along historic routes. They encompass studies on the adaptive reuse of industrial heritage and the cultural significance of local landscapes, among other compelling topics.

All the articles collectively underscore the paramount importance of interdisciplinary research and innovative approaches in confronting the intricate challenges posed by the coexistence of cultural heritage and sustainable urban development. We firmly believe that the insights provided by these articles will invigorate the discourse and empower the formulation of strategies aimed at achieving a harmonious equilibrium, preserving our heritage while nurturing sustainable, vibrant urban spaces for the benefit of generations to come.

**Lucia Della Spina, Paola Pellegrini, Antonia Russo, Maria Rosa Valluzzi, and Angela Viglianisi** *Editors*
