Purpose This study investigates how the adaptive reuse of religious heritage, particularly monastic and conventual buildings, can promote cultural resilience and sustainable development in low-density rural areas. Focusing on the Alentejo region of Southern Portugal, it addresses a gap in heritage literature by moving beyond tourism-centric models to explore socio-cultural dimensions of reuse. The research aims to understand how such reuse can enhance community well-being, foster identity and contribute to inclusive territorial development. Design/methodology/approach A mixed-methods approach was adopted, combining quantitative and qualitative techniques. The study systematically mapped 131 monastic and conventual sites in Alentejo, analyzing ownership, conservation state, current use and relevant heritage policies. This was complemented by three in-depth case studies employing comparative ethnography to examine cultural reuse initiatives. The triangulation of data allowed for a comprehensive understanding of the drivers, barriers and outcomes of adaptive reuse practices in rural heritage contexts. Findings The research highlights both opportunities and constraints in reusing religious heritage in rural areas. Key barriers include restrictive regulations, insufficient funding and conflicts between conservation standards and innovation. However, successful case studies illustrate that participatory, multidisciplinary and multi-stakeholder reuse processes can revitalise heritage sites. These practices enhance local identity, strengthen social cohesion and promote ecological awareness, revealing adaptive reuse as a viable tool for fostering resilience and inclusive rural development. Research limitations/implications While offering valuable insights, the study is limited by its geographic focus on the Alentejo region, which may affect generalisability. Further research in diverse rural contexts is needed to test the applicability of the findings. Additionally, longitudinal studies could better assess long-term impacts of reuse initiatives. Nonetheless, the study provides a solid foundation for expanding theoretical and practical understanding of cultural resilience in heritage management. Practical implications The study offers actionable recommendations for policymakers, planners and heritage practitioners. It underscores the importance of integrating adaptive reuse into territorial development strategies and fostering community-led governance models. Findings advocate for diversified funding mechanisms and cross-sectoral collaboration to overcome resource and policy barriers. The research also supports capacity-building among local stakeholders to ensure sustainable and inclusive heritage reuse. Social implications Adaptive reuse of monastic heritage can reinforce cultural identity, encourage civic participation and facilitate intergenerational knowledge transfer in rural communities. By promoting local engagement and inclusive decision-making, reuse projects can help rebuild social networks and enhance community resilience. These initiatives not only preserve the physical fabric of heritage sites but also contribute to social sustainability and democratic heritage stewardship. Originality/value This study presents an original integration of adaptive reuse and cultural resilience frameworks in the context of rural religious heritage. By focusing on both tangible and intangible dimensions, it contributes a holistic perspective to the heritage reuse discourse. The work is among the first to systematically explore non-tourism-based reuse in low-density regions, offering a replicable methodology and strategic insights for advancing community-centered heritage practices.

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Adaptive reuse,Architecture,Community involvement,Cultural resilience,Heritage management,Heritage policies,Local development,Public-private partnership,Religious and sacred heritage,Sustainability

• Economics and Business - Social Sciences
• Sociology - Social Sciences
• Social and Economic Geography - Social Sciences
• Other Humanities - Humanities