This paper aims at discussing a relevant issue in the field of urban studies and economic geography: how the construction of the identity and the definition of the image of knowledge and innovation cities can influence the development of research and high-tech activities and the growth dynamics of the city itself. First, it identifies the various components which contribute to the creation of the identity of the knowledge and innovation city, dividing them into two categories: "structural components" (such as the presence of research centres, skilled human resources, high technology companies, etc.), which are considered as essential requisites, and "contextual components" (both tangible and intangible), which not only strengthen structural ones, but also help to define the typical features and the "signs" of the knowledge and innovation city. Secondly, the paper analyzes the relationship between the construction of an image that represents the knowledge and innovation city and the perception of this image by internal and external actors. Adopting this theoretical background, the case of Pisa is then presented, since it describes a medium sized university city, with a "lights and shadows" situation - linked to the presence of at least another other strong urban image, such as being the "City of the Leaning Tower" - which aims at recognizing and communicating itself as an urban centre that grounds its development on scientific knowledge and technological innovation.
展开▼
