Mapping method for the integrated analysis of gentrification and touristification: the case of Málaga (Spain)

Abstract

Since the 1960s, the productive model of Málaga has been pointed toward tourism. The redevelopment of the historic centre of the city and the increasing specialization of some areas in services linked to tourism have created several negative consequences on the habitability and the identity of those areas. This work aims at developing a methodology that allows measuring, individually, the spatial influence and intensity of gentrification and touristification. The final goal is join together both urban processes in a map, also including the evolution of their variables over time. The method allows delimiting areas where both processes overlap. The results show a strong gentrification and touristification in the historic centre of Málaga, also observed along the main road axis and the coastline. In addition, touristification is higher in the areas adjacent to the historic centre whereas gentrification is observed in squares with special architectural characteristics.

A bibliometric analysis of tourism gentrification

“…In the year 1990, the first publication by City and Society journal shed light on the phenomenon whereby coastal regions were more appealing to retirees and those in search of improved quality of life, thus resulting in the process often referred to as the "gentrification" of commercial fishing [19]. The most recent publication, authored by Noblejas et al in 2023, which appears in the journal Cuadernos Geograficos, presents a comprehensive analysis of the profound gentrification and touristification phenomena occurring in the historic city of Málaga [20]. The findings demonstrate a positive correlation between touristification and proximity to the historic center, whereas squares with distinctive architectural features exhibit signs of gentrification.…”

The touristification of urban spaces: measurement proposal

“…Similarly, Cerdá-Mansilla et al (2022) and Gil & Sequera (2022) apply them to the districts of Madrid, while Antunes & Ferreira (2021) use the parishes of Lisbon and Celata et al (2020) contemplate a 50x50 metre mesh in Florence. Castro et al (2023) consider the proportion of the total number of properties. In addition to these studies, there is a series of contributions that use a more diverse set of indicators that even make up indicator systems, as previously indicated.…”