Arguing that heritage typically plays one of a distinct set of roles in the process in which regional identities are formed, this book deepens the understanding of how heritage works in regional identities in Western Europe. These regional identities vary from traditional and past-oriented, to strategic and future oriented, in which particular narratives on the past appear more useful than others for present day purposes. Three case studies in various European regions underline these arguments and cover contemporary and political uses of heritage. The book provides an integrated and yet broad exploration of regional identities and the narratives in which heritage takes central stage.
