Academic history, heritage, and scientific research as a resource for a lively urban culture and emotional urban experiences

Authors

• Juulia Räikkönen University of Turku
• Miia Grénman University of Turku

DOI: https://doi.org/10.33357/ys.129007

Keywords:

academic heritage, city branding, urban culture, science tourism

Abstract

Universities increase their cities’ competitiveness and attractiveness through the essence of historical continuity, credibility, knowledge, and entrepreneurship. Cities, in turn, offer universities various opportunities for research, education, and social interaction. This study examines how academic history, heritage, and scientific research can invigorate urban culture and facilitate the development of creative cities and city brands. We focus on two traditional university cities – Turku and Tartu – whose urban cultures and city brands illustrate a solid academic flavor. Through creative industries and science tourism, cities’ academic history, cultural heritage, and science can become a prominent part of a vivid urban culture.