Cruise terminals as Mediterranean vestibules: rebuilding old ports in search of port-city's identity

The Association of Mediterranean Cruise Ports (www.medcruise.com) emphasizes the advantages of the Mediterranean over other cruising areas - first and foremost the great diversity of cultures, peoples, languages and history in a relatively small area – which is expected to become soon a year-round cruise destination. The establishment of Mediterranean cruise routes and terminals started in the nineties and, ever since, has implied the upgrading of many old ports. To meet the growing needs of cruise operators - reducing travel time; continuous increase in the size and standard of quality of cruise ships – some ports (Genoa) have used the 19th-century docks, while others (Malta) have launched a broader program for enhancing the historic port and its architectural heritage. This contribution will compare port rehabilitation projects related to the establishment of cruise terminals, with a focus on planning and urban management based upon heritage recognition, and drawing attention to forma urbis (the urban framework) as a key feature for the future urban identity.