This study focuses on immovable cultural heritage assets classified as monuments, with the protection category of National Monument (NM), open to the public. It presents a comprehensive analysis of the National Monuments of Portugal and their accessibility to the public in 2019 and aims to contribute to the knowledge of these monuments in terms of their valorisation through access and enjoyment.
The report encompasses a quantitative survey conducted from April 17 to June 17, 2020, providing valuable insights into the trends and characteristics of visitor access and engagement. The findings reveal that 72% of visitable National Monuments exercise control over visitor entries, indicating a significant level of management and oversight. The study highlights the strong growth of small (40%) and very small (32%) monuments, emphasising the experiential and authentic dimensions sought by tourists.
Additionally, it notes the increasing volume of paid entries, signifying a growing interest in monument visitation. The data also sheds light on the challenges faced by the education system in relation to immovable heritage, as evidenced by the declining presence of school groups.
Furthermore, the study delves into the human resources dimension, identifying notable developments and comparisons across variables and years. It emphasises the stability of the samples in 2018 and 2019, with minor differences observed in public closures for renovation or maintenance purposes. The study underscores the importance of continued monitoring, particularly in light of the COVID-19 pandemic’s impact on National Monuments.
Overall, the report provides valuable insights into visitor patterns, monument management, and the evolving landscape of cultural heritage accessibility in Portugal.
