The research conducted by the author over more than twenty years on the evolution of territories led him to present culture as the first element to consider in urban or rural development, because it incorporates respect for history, sense of place, heritage in all its forms and the practices of the inhabitants. He observed that projects of a cultural nature provoke intangible reactions that are not always taken into account in the development of territories. At a time when cities and regions are competing, the beauty of a place, the pride and the sense of belonging that comes with it are factors of development. The author demonstrates, from case studies, the relevance of using a cultural strategy, as it stimulates creativity, innovation and the mobilization of local actors.