Stretch the Edge – Design Driven Processes for Reactivating Small Walled Towns and Inland Areas

Stretch the Edge – Design Driven Processes for Reactivating Small Walled Towns and Inland Areas was an international symposium held on June 22–23, 2023, at the University of the Republic of San Marino. Promoted in collaboration with the University of Bologna and Beijing City University, the event explored the potential of design as a booster for the reactivation of small, often isolated inland areas and walled towns that, despite challenges, possess strong territorial identities and unique characteristics. Sixteen international case studies on design-led territorial regeneration were presented across three thematic sessions. Each session demonstrated how design can foster sustainable and inclusive reactivation. The symposium opened with the presentation of a database mapping 150 national and international case studies, submitted by a global network of researchers and practitioners. The proceedings compile contributions from speakers, participants, and working group members in two formats: ‘Research Papers’ highlighting the academic perspective and ‘Stories’ presenting interesting case studies shared during the event.