ABSTRACT
This chapter explores how some cultural policies shape urban regeneration processes. A few researchers in urban studies have paid tribute to the role of new cultural venues as flagships of some processes of image betterment and urban regeneration. It is increasingly obvious that urban regeneration cannot solely be measured in terms of economic statistics or in terms of architectural revamping and real estate investments. The author believes that scheme is possible, one in which museums arrive first as a consequence of a political decision to bring derelict landmarks of city heritage into new life, then, in a knock-on domino effect, other derelict buildings in the district become cultural centers or art galleries, and finally artists move their studios into the areas, creating a lively atmosphere in what used to be a blighted area. Nevertheless, politicians and planners do have free hands in deciding where to plant a new museum and it can entail the mushrooming of a thriving arts scene.
