Transformation and perception of public space in the Historic Center of Morelia, Mexico

Abstract

The transformation of urban centers into historic ones follows a strategy aimed at tourism. The government acts upon public space as a trigger, not only for the tertiarization of land use but also to modify the existing social dynamics in these areas. Through a longitudinal temporal approach, it becomes evident that beyond the change in residents’ perception of public space, the strategy pursued clearly shows a modification in the public-private relationship, assigning the latter a complementary function to commercial activity, which fosters social exclusion.