This study presents a methodology generated for the preventive conservation of defensive earthen architecture, applied to the case of the Lojuela Castle (Lecrin Valley, Granada, Spain). In the application of the designed protocol, a multidisciplinary analysis of its patrimonial characteristics and multidimensional evaluation was developed, applying the technique of qualitative consultation to a group of experts—the Delphi method. This methodology allowed us to relate the hazard factors and the vulnerability of the asset for each group of risks that affect it. The support of the method in with geographic information systems (GIS) has favored the production of predictive cartography and risk analysis—including the territorial dimensions and spatial interactions of the asset with the physical environment. This has facilitated the obtention of micro-zoning maps of each of the risks examined. The risk mapping in micro-zoning and the knowledge of the structure’s vulnerability represents an important contribution to the future conservation and management of this heritage. They favor strategies that minimize the incidence of risks and allow the prioritization of the conservation actions with a minimum economic investment, creating an efficient maintenance program. This will facilitate the protection, conservation and valorization decisions by the administration and the competent bodies involved in the protection of these sites.

One of the main risks to the preservation of Spanish defensive heritage is anthropic in origin and is associated with local society’s lack of cultural identification with these cultural assets. Consequently, there is a dearth of conservation strategies. In this paper, the current situation is examined, then a management model is proposed, with the Torre de Romilla in the Granada province (Spain) as its focus. The model is constructed on the basis of research regarding the antecedents to loyalty towards this heritage landmark, in order to enhance its value. To accomplish this, survey data from 200 randomly selected subjects was collected and analysed. The results indicate that the antecedent factors which determine loyalty are place attachment and its perceived image, which lead to an increased probability that the site will be visited and recommended. The direct consequence of this is that contributions to the economy from tourism would allow for the sustainable conservation of these assets.

<p>The preventive conservation of cultural assets involves a strategy to analyse and control the factors which cause their deterioration. The main aim is to guarantee their stability and the sustainable maintenance. The Alhambra and Generalife Site has been exposed to numerous risk factors over time which have left their mark on its fabric. On some occasions these have had serious effects which now present significant challenges for the comprehensive conservation of assets at the Site. During the twentieth century the Alhambra became a preserve for which a set of conservation and maintenance plans were developed, the first of which was the Special Protection and Interior Reform Plan for the Alhambra and Alijares (1987). Subsequently, the current Alhambra Master Plan (2007-2020) was instigated.</p><p>This paper examines the plan´s innovative methodological approach and its proposals regarding preventive conservation in circumstances under which its location precipitates natural and anthropic risks, and which are specific to its history and physical condition, its fragile materials and increased pressures on it from mass tourism.</p>

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