Regional Analysis and Policy, The Greek Experience
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Rural space in Greece is experiencing a significant transformation. During the last four decades, the traditional urban-rural dichotomy has given way to complex spatial patterns, which are undergoing a process of continuous change. This change is the result of a variety of factors such as the international economic environment, the emergence of new economic activities in rural areas, mainly the service sector and tourism, changing urban-rural relations, as well as the implementation of national and European policies for the agricultural sector and for rural development. In addition, rural development is no longer solely dependent on the agricultural sector but also on rural – urban relationships and the presence of a large variety of economic activities in rural areas.
In this chapter, data concerning the demographic, economic and infrastructure characteristics of rural areas are analysed, describing the transformation of rural space in Greece. This analysis is employed in order to formulate typologies of rural areas. In particular, a case study for the region of Crete is presented. A typology of rural areas in Crete is developed, which is used in order to suggest policy guidelines for rural development in Crete. The results are presented in a GIS environment and when appropriate comparisons are made with similar studies in Europe. Finally, policies for agricultural and rural development, in the context of European regional and spatial development, are examined in relation to rural patterns in Crete and the development perspectives of rural areas.
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