Foreword

This presentation explores the valorization of underground built heritage (UBH) within exceptional cultural landscapes through two notable examples: Matera's "Sassi" in Italy and Göreme in Cappadocia, Turkey. While Matera exemplifies a long-standing human settlement recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Göreme showcases a dynamic interaction between natural formations and human activity, with its iconic 'fairy chimneys' and Byzantine cave churches. However, heritage preservation and tourism have disrupted the local communities, displacing traditional practices and reshaping the landscape. Through the COST Action "Underground4value," the Göreme region became a focal point for research using a living lab approach, promoting collaboration between local communities and international researchers. This initiative highlighted the complex relationship between local heritage and global preservation efforts, emphasizing community engagement and innovative research practices. The findings emphasize the need for adaptive frameworks balancing heritage conservation, community participation, and sustainable tourism.