Introduction

This introduction presents an overview of key concepts discussed in the subsequent chapters of this book. The book discusses how small and medium-sized cities (SMCs) are creatively addressing with the means of culture the challenges and risks of the contemporary neoliberal world. European SMCs as autonomous entities in their complex hierarchical spatial linkages, and citizens creating their own places through a thick web of social relations. The book outlines the new role of culture in building more sustainable cities in Europe and the special role of small and medium-sized cities in the process of establishing new models of urban sustainability. It shows how the integration of culture within sustainable urban development is influenced and mobilized by European policy frameworks and programmes. The book highlights the need for a new strategic option to reconsider the actual questions of urban and regional territorial planning.