Multi-Hazard Assessment in Post-Mining Landscape and Potential for Geotourism Development (On the Example of the Central Spiš Region in Slovakia)

The presented article is focused on a spatial analysis and identification of high and medium risk areas and their impact on potential for geotourism development in the Central Spiš region in Slovakia. To achieve this goal, we used a combination of two methods: the multi-hazard assessment method and the quantitative Geosite Assessment Model. The research results show that the geosites with the highest potential for the development of geotourism are also located in the low treat zone. These are mainly GS₉ adit Pavol (overall point value 16.25), GS₁ adit Rochus (15.25) and GS₈ adit Peter (14.00). On the other hand, geosites with a low point value for the development of geotourism, such as GS₁₀ sinkhole Baniská (7.75) and GS₅ tailings impoundment Markušovce (10.50), are located in the high treat zone. The obtained results show that even in the significantly anthropogenically burdened and economically underdeveloped post-mining landscape of the studied area, it is possible to identify positive impulses for further development. This concerns in particular the use of evaluated geosites in geotourism, with the aim of simultaneously supporting the protection of local cultural heritage, the natural environment and the socioeconomic development of the local community.