The Cultural District between planning and spontaneity

Recognizing the benefits of agglomeration and clustering, policymakers have attempted to create cultural districts by employing top-down strategies. However, it has been observed that cultural clusters frequently arise naturally without direct intervention from local governments or policy incentives. In this thesis the policy dilemma regarding the feasibility of recreate cultural districts has been addressed. Indeed, following the discussion on agglomeration and its benefits, the question of whether it is possible to plan something that by nature tends to arise spontaneously, and what this entails has been raised. Specifically, this thesis aims to answer the following research question: Considering the benefits of clustering, how can policymakers replicate this phenomenon? How do the dynamics of agglomeration work in Manifattura delle Arti in Bologna? In order to answer the research question, the analysis focuses on the case of Manifattura delle Arti in Bologna, aiming to understand the dynamics of agglomeration. Through 12 interviews with key actors in the district, including directors, cultural employees, and stakeholders, the study reveals two main findings. Firstly, there is a lack of identity and synergy within the planned district, attributed to factors such as physical and architectural barriers and a lack of governance. Secondly, a spontaneous cluster of cultural organisations has emerged, stimulated by the institutional planned district, leading to knowledge spillover and collaborations. However, both the institutional and grassroots spheres of the district highlight the need for better coordination and governance. On one side, the grassroots organisations feel instrumentalized by the municipality. This issue is closely tied to the relationship with the territory, where the bottom-up sphere demonstrates greater community involvement. On the other side, the planned district lacks a higher level of coordination to strengthen relations and foster synergy. The case of Manifattura delle Arti in Bologna offers valuable insights as it combines spontaneity and planning within an institutional district, resulting in both positive and negative effects. Finally, the findings have implications for policymakers and urban planners involved in cultural-led regeneration interventions.