Local identity and historical value as a strategy for economic transformation in the historic centre of Santa Ana

Abstract

Introduction: This article is the result of the research conducted in the historic center of Santa Ana, taking as sample population the merchants of the place. The objective was to know part of the reality of the territory in relation to the presence of local identity and the historical value expressed in the commercial practices of the merchants as a differentiating element to highlight and dynamize local consumption in order to differentiate from other regions. Method: The method applied was the phenomenological-analytical one, so that the opinions of the population and the sample on the problem posed could be known, with the purpose of finding and transforming the reality that generates the phenomenon to be studied. Results: a situation of local and historical identity was found that has not been exploited to promote the local economy nor is there a clear strategy on the positioning of the historical heritage of Downtown Santa Ana, to attract local and regional tourism, since it has not been possible to articulate a strategy linked to the city and its identity as such. Conclusions: Informal merchants agree that local identity, can be a factor that helps to improve the conditions of attractiveness of the historic center, as a strategy to attract opportunities for social welfare and economic well-being for all stakeholders.