Holy Spaces, Contemporary Art: Reuse and Conservation in Naples’ Churches (Italy)

The article explores the effects of contemporary art on heritage preservation in the adaptive reuse of decommissioned churches, with a focus on the case study of the Rione Sanità in Naples (Italy). The growing secularisation and the progressive abandonment of churches have led to the need to find new uses for these spaces, which were once places of worship. In this context, contemporary art has played a central role in breathing new life into these buildings, transforming them into cultural spaces, art galleries, creative studios, or places of reflection. However, this process is not without challenges. The artistic transformations of churches risk compromising their original meaning and altering their architectural integrity, leading to the loss of significant historical and symbolic value. In the context of the Rione Sanità, the use of art as a tool for regeneration has had a significant impact on the neighbourhood, but the implications of this type of reuse require a more in-depth reflection on its long-term consequences.