HERMES SA: A Proposal for a European Satellite Account for Cultural Material Heritage

Material Cultural Heritage (MCH) is gaining increasing relevance due to its impact on tourism, education, and local economies. This growing significance highlights the need for statistical tools that enable a systematic measurement of the MCH sector. This article presents a methodology developed for establishing Satellite Accounts for Material Cultural Heritage (HERMES SA) within the European context. This methodology was developed under the auspices of ESPON, an institution committed to the analysis and promotion of cultural heritage. It draws on previous research concerning the conceptualisation and measurement of the MCH sector, as well as on conceptual frameworks associated with the cultural and creative industries. The article outlines the objectives and core features of HERMES SA, including the delineation of the sector’s scope and the identification of variables and indicators that best capture its economic dimension. Ultimately, the proposal seeks to support evidence-based policymaking and foster a value-driven approach to heritage, moving beyond a purely conservation-led perspective.