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Geoheritage and Geotourism Resources
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Geoheritage and Geotourism Resources

A special issue of Resources (ISSN 2079-9276).

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (31 January 2020) | Viewed by 84650

Printed Edition Available!
A printed edition of this Special Issue is available here.

Special Issue Editors

Prof. Dr. Nicoletta Santangelo

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Dipartimento Scienze della Terra, dell'Ambiente e delle Risorse, Università di Napoli Federico II, Complesso Universitario di Monte S. Angelo, Via Cintia 26, 80126 Naples, Italy
Interests: geomorphology; quaternary geology; geomorphological mapping; fluvial geomorphology; coastal geomorphology; natural hazards; alluvial fan; flash flood; karst; geoheritage; geotourism
Dr. Ettore Valente

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Dipartimento Scienze della Terra, dell'Ambiente e delle Risorse, Università di Napoli Federico II, Complesso Universitario di Monte S. Angelo, Via Cintia 26, 80126 Naples, Italy
Interests: Geomorphology; Geoheritage; Quaternary Geology; Tectonic-geomorphology; Geographic Information System

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

The term geoheritage refers to a peculiar type of natural resource represented by sites of special geological significance, rarity or beauty that are representative of a region and its geological history, events and processes. These sites are also known as “geosites”, and alongside archeological, architectonic and historical sites, they can be considered as part of the cultural estate of a country. “Geotourism” is an emerging type of sustainable tourism that concentrates on geosites, furnishing visitors with knowledge, environmental education and also amusement. In this sense, geotourism may be very useful for the geological sciences. The improvement of geological knowledge is a basic resource for the social and economic development of any community because it increases the sensitivity of citizens with regard to the state of the environment and increases their awareness of natural disasters. These steps are of fundamental importance for territorial planning policies that aim at controlling and mitigating the risks associated with natural disasters. Geotourism may also be useful for the promotion of protected areas (natural parks and geoparks), furnishing additional opportunities for rural development and for reducing the rate of unemployment and migration, in areas not always included among the main touristic attractions of a region.

The main aim of this Special Issue is to outline the role of geoheritage and geotourism as potential tools for educational and touristic development. Papers dealing with related topics are welcome.

Prof. Dr. Nicoletta Santangelo
Dr. Ettore Valente
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Resources is an international peer-reviewed open access monthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 1600 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

  • geoheritage
  • geosites
  • geotourism
  • geological science
  • divulgation
  • environmental knowledge

Published Papers (15 papers)

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Editorial

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5 pages, 213 KiB  
Editorial
Geoheritage and Geotourism Resources
by Nicoletta Santangelo and Ettore Valente
Resources 2020, 9(7), 80; https://doi.org/10.3390/resources9070080 - 28 Jun 2020
Cited by 33 | Viewed by 4248
Abstract
This Special Issue wants to outline the role of Geoheritage and Geotourism as potential touristic resources of a region. The term “Geoheritage” refers to a peculiar type of natural resources represented by sites of special geological significance, rarity or beauty that are representative [...] Read more.
This Special Issue wants to outline the role of Geoheritage and Geotourism as potential touristic resources of a region. The term “Geoheritage” refers to a peculiar type of natural resources represented by sites of special geological significance, rarity or beauty that are representative of a region and of its geological history, events and processes. These sites are also known as “geosites” and, as well as archaeological, architectonic and historical ones, they can be considered as part of the cultural estate of a country. “Geotourism” is an emerging type of sustainable tourism, which concentrates on geosites, furnishing to visitors knowledge, environmental education and amusement. In this meaning, Geotourism may be very useful for geological Sciences divulgation and may furnish additional opportunities for the development of rural areas, generally not included among the main touristic attractions. The collected papers focused on these main topics with different methods and approaches and can be grouped as follows: (i) papers dealing with geosites promotion and valorisation in protected areas; (ii) papers dealing with geosites promotion and valorisation in non-protected areas; (iii) papers dealing with geosites promotion by exhibition, remote sensing analysis and apps; (iv) papers investigating geotourism and geoheritage from the tourists’ perspective. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Geoheritage and Geotourism Resources)

Research

Jump to: Editorial

23 pages, 25334 KiB  
Article
GEOTOURISM as a Tool for Learning: A Geoitinerary in the Cilento, Vallo di Diano and Alburni Geopark (Southern Italy)
by Nicoletta Santangelo, Vincenzo Amato, Alessandra Ascione, Elda Russo Ermolli and Ettore Valente
Resources 2020, 9(6), 67; https://doi.org/10.3390/resources9060067 - 04 Jun 2020
Cited by 13 | Viewed by 4323
Abstract
“Geotourism” is a particular type of “sustainable tourism” that is still in an embryonic stage, especially in Italy. The main goal is the transmission of geological knowledge to increase the awareness about geoheritage, geo-resources and geo-hazards. The geoparks represent ideal sites, with a [...] Read more.
“Geotourism” is a particular type of “sustainable tourism” that is still in an embryonic stage, especially in Italy. The main goal is the transmission of geological knowledge to increase the awareness about geoheritage, geo-resources and geo-hazards. The geoparks represent ideal sites, with a strong educational significance for students, teachers, geo-tourists, and guides interested in geological and environmental sciences, though at different levels. With this in mind, we propose a geoitinerary through some of the most geologically interesting coastal areas in the Cilento, Vallo di Diano, and Alburni Geopark. The aim of the geoitinerary is to provide a good example of how geosites could be promoted through geotourism and used as means of divulgation of geological and environmental knowledge. The selected sites are the San Marco coast, the Licosa Cape and the Elea-Velia archaeological area. They are included in the official list of geosites and geomorphosites of the Geopark and have a relevant stratigraphic and geoarcheological value. The San Marco coast and the Licosa Cape are the “best sites” in the Geopark where Quaternary coastal deposits and morphologies are represented. The Elea-Velia site is one of the most famous archeological sites in the Geopark, which is also representative of complex human-environment interactions. Despite their high scientific significance, the sites that we have selected are not included in a specific promoting program. We have so tried to fill this gap by providing the scientific background for their geotouristic promotion that could also serve as an instrument for the increase of the local economy. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Geoheritage and Geotourism Resources)
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35 pages, 18157 KiB  
Article
Fieldtrips and Virtual Tours as Geotourism Resources: Examples from the Sesia Val Grande UNESCO Global Geopark (NW Italy)
by Luigi Perotti, Irene Maria Bollati, Cristina Viani, Enrico Zanoletti, Valeria Caironi, Manuela Pelfini and Marco Giardino
Resources 2020, 9(6), 63; https://doi.org/10.3390/resources9060063 - 29 May 2020
Cited by 28 | Viewed by 5152
Abstract
In the 20th anniversary year of the European Geopark Network, and 5 years on from the receipt of the UNESCO label for the geoparks, this research focuses on geotourism contents and solutions within one of the most recently designated geoparks, admitted for membership [...] Read more.
In the 20th anniversary year of the European Geopark Network, and 5 years on from the receipt of the UNESCO label for the geoparks, this research focuses on geotourism contents and solutions within one of the most recently designated geoparks, admitted for membership in 2013: the Sesia Val Grande UNESCO Global Geopark (Western Italian Alps). The main aim of this paper is to corroborate the use of fieldtrips and virtual tours as resources for geotourism. The analysis is developed according to: i) geodiversity and geoheritage of the geopark territory; ii) different approaches for planning fieldtrip and virtual tours. The lists of 18 geotrails, 68 geosites and 13 off-site geoheritage elements (e.g., museums, geolabs) are provided. Then, seven trails were selected as a mirror of the geodiversity and as container of on-site and off-site geoheritage within the geopark. They were described to highlight the different approaches that were implemented for their valorization. Most of the geotrails are equipped with panels, and supported by the presence of thematic laboratories or sections in museums. A multidisciplinary approach (e.g., history, ecology) is applied to some geotrails, and a few of them are translated into virtual tours. The variety of geosciences contents of the geopark territory is hence viewed as richness, in term of high geodiversity, but also in term of diversification for its valorization. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Geoheritage and Geotourism Resources)
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26 pages, 8882 KiB  
Article
Geotourism in the Cilento, Vallo di Diano and Alburni UNESCO Global Geopark (Southern Italy): The Middle Bussento Karst System
by Ettore Valente, Antonio Santo, Domenico Guida and Nicoletta Santangelo
Resources 2020, 9(5), 52; https://doi.org/10.3390/resources9050052 - 26 Apr 2020
Cited by 15 | Viewed by 5347
Abstract
In this paper we want to stress the role of geotourism as a means to promote environmental education and, on occasion, as a way to increase the touristic interest of an area. Geoparks are certainly the territory where geotourism can be best exploited. [...] Read more.
In this paper we want to stress the role of geotourism as a means to promote environmental education and, on occasion, as a way to increase the touristic interest of an area. Geoparks are certainly the territory where geotourism can be best exploited. We propose a geoitinerary to discover the amazing, but poorly known, Middle Bussento Karst System, with the blind valley of the Bussento River, in the southeast of the Cilento, Vallo di Diano and Alburni United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) Global Geopark. This is the only example, in Southern Italy, of a stream sinking underground and it is the second longest subsurface river path in Italy, making this a core area of the Geopark. We combined field surveys and literature data to create a geoitinerary that can be useful in helping to promote this site. This geoitinerary is applicable to both simple generic visitors and geo-tourists and has an educational purpose, especially in explaining the significance and the fragility of karst areas in terms of environmental protection. Moreover, it may represent a sort of stimulus for the growth of touristic activity in this inner area of the Geopark. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Geoheritage and Geotourism Resources)
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28 pages, 13209 KiB  
Article
Protected Areas: Geotourist Attractiveness for Weekend Tourists Based on the Example of Gorczański National Park in Poland
by Krzysztof Widawski, Piotr Oleśniewicz, Agnieszka Rozenkiewicz, Anna Zaręba and Soňa Jandová
Resources 2020, 9(4), 35; https://doi.org/10.3390/resources9040035 - 25 Mar 2020
Cited by 13 | Viewed by 4782
Abstract
The aim of the publication was to assess the geotourist attractiveness of protected areas in Poland among weekend tourists based on the example of Gorczański National Park. The park location near urbanized areas makes it an attractive field for research on weekend tourism [...] Read more.
The aim of the publication was to assess the geotourist attractiveness of protected areas in Poland among weekend tourists based on the example of Gorczański National Park. The park location near urbanized areas makes it an attractive field for research on weekend tourism development. The tourist potential of the park is presented, starting from geological aspects and geotourist values. Then, the tourist potential was analysed, with a focus on geotourist resources, which include tourist trails and didactic routes. The tourist traffic volume was also examined. On the basis of legal documents, such as nature conservation plans, threats related to tourism development in protected areas were presented as indicated by park managers. In accordance with the Act on Nature Conservation, the threats are divided into four groups: internal existing and potential threats and external existing and potential threats. The tourists’ opinion on the geotourist attractiveness of the park was investigated with surveys conducted during selected weekends significant in the context of tourist traffic volume. Thus, a profile of people visiting the park for short stays was obtained, as well as their assessment of the tourist resources of the area, with particular emphasis on geotourist values. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Geoheritage and Geotourism Resources)
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20 pages, 12457 KiB  
Article
MoGeo, a Mobile Application to Promote Geotourism in Molise Region (Southern Italy)
by Francesca Filocamo, Gianluigi Di Paola, Lino Mastrobuono and Carmen M. Rosskopf
Resources 2020, 9(3), 31; https://doi.org/10.3390/resources9030031 - 12 Mar 2020
Cited by 18 | Viewed by 4992
Abstract
Geotourism represents a powerful and new form of sustainable tourism that has rapidly expanded worldwide over the last decades. To promote it, the use of digital and geomatic tools is becoming of increasing importance. Especially mobile information represents one of the most efficient [...] Read more.
Geotourism represents a powerful and new form of sustainable tourism that has rapidly expanded worldwide over the last decades. To promote it, the use of digital and geomatic tools is becoming of increasing importance. Especially mobile information represents one of the most efficient and smart ways to bring geotourism closer to a wide audience. This applies in particular to rural and inner areas, where the exploitation of geoheritage can represent a crucial resource for eco-friendly and sustainable tourism development. With the aim to promote geotourism on a regional scale, we have implemented a mobile devise application for Molise region, tested in the Alto Molise area. This application, called MoGeo App, aims at providing diversified geotourism information that combines geologic attractions (geosites and geologic itineraries) with other possible tourist attractions (other sites of natural and cultural interest), to respond to differentiated interests and needs of a wide audience. Besides geotourism purposes, the structure of MoGeo App can be used also for other purposes such as educational targets, by adapting contents and language. It appears to be a flexible, easily updatable digital tool, adaptable to various target groups, as well as other regional contexts, both inside and outside of Italy. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Geoheritage and Geotourism Resources)
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22 pages, 4239 KiB  
Article
Quantitative and Qualitative Assessment of the “El Sexmo” Tourist Gold Mine (Zaruma, Ecuador) as A Geosite and Mining Site
by Paúl Carrión-Mero, Oscar Loor-Oporto, Héctor Andrade-Ríos, Gricelda Herrera-Franco, Fernando Morante-Carballo, María Jaya-Montalvo, Maribel Aguilar-Aguilar, Karen Torres-Peña and Edgar Berrezueta
Resources 2020, 9(3), 28; https://doi.org/10.3390/resources9030028 - 10 Mar 2020
Cited by 33 | Viewed by 10190
Abstract
Zaruma is host to the ‘‘El Sexmo’’ tourist mine, the galleries of which extend below the city, and its exploitation dates back to precolonial times. The mining boom created important development in the area, but informal mining also emerged causing environmental issues and [...] Read more.
Zaruma is host to the ‘‘El Sexmo’’ tourist mine, the galleries of which extend below the city, and its exploitation dates back to precolonial times. The mining boom created important development in the area, but informal mining also emerged causing environmental issues and safety problems. This study presents a qualitative and quantitative assessment of the “El Sexmo” Tourist Mine in the context of its potential as a tourism geosite and mining site. The methodological stages included: (i) The process and systematization of the general mine information and its surroundings; (ii) the assessment of the geological and mining interest of the mine, through GAM and Brilha method; and (iii) description and proposal of action strategies through Delphi analysis and a Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats (SWOT) matrix. Based on the results of the quantitative evaluation, the high values in the educational, scientific, and tourist aspects of the two applied methodologies, show the mine as a potential geosite and mining site with added cultural value. In addition, the quantitative assessment in correspondence with the qualitative analysis, allowed to propose improvement strategies to take advantage of the geological resources and mining identity of the area, as an alternative that strengthens the infrastructure of the mine and consolidates the geotouristic development of the area. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Geoheritage and Geotourism Resources)
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25 pages, 15195 KiB  
Article
Regional Geotourist Resources—Assessment and Management (A Case Study in SE Poland)
by Wojciech Zgłobicki, Sylwia Kukiełka and Bogusława Baran-Zgłobicka
Resources 2020, 9(2), 18; https://doi.org/10.3390/resources9020018 - 19 Feb 2020
Cited by 11 | Viewed by 4029
Abstract
The appropriate identification of the geoheritage resources of a specific area is the sine qua non of the development of geotourism. The identification of tourists’ perception of abiotic nature sites of high scientific value is also particularly important because it determines the possibility [...] Read more.
The appropriate identification of the geoheritage resources of a specific area is the sine qua non of the development of geotourism. The identification of tourists’ perception of abiotic nature sites of high scientific value is also particularly important because it determines the possibility of using the potential of geosites. In the study, a detailed analysis was carried out of the assets of geological, geomorphological and hydrologic sites in the Central Roztocze region (SE Poland) comprising the central part of the proposed Geopark “Stone Forest in Roztocze”. Data from the Polish Central Register of Geosites, the results of a geotourist assessment and questionnaire surveys were used in the analysis. These data indicate a high potential for geotourism development and consistency between scientific assessments and ratings from tourists. However, this potential is not used to a sufficient degree, while actions aimed at developing geotourism and establishing the Geopark are not appreciated by local authorities and institutions responsible for tourism development. The idea of geoparks and geotourism development is not supported by the State either, whether institutionally or financially. Based on the studies conducted, we propose practical measures that should be implemented to increase the use of the region’s geotourist assets. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Geoheritage and Geotourism Resources)
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29 pages, 6608 KiB  
Article
Iceland, an Open-Air Museum for Geoheritage and Earth Science Communication Purposes
by Federico Pasquaré Mariotto, Fabio Luca Bonali and Corrado Venturini
Resources 2020, 9(2), 14; https://doi.org/10.3390/resources9020014 - 02 Feb 2020
Cited by 29 | Viewed by 7100
Abstract
Iceland is one of the most recognizable and iconic places on Earth, offering an unparalleled chance to admire the most powerful natural phenomena related to the combination of geodynamic, tectonic and magmatic forces, such as active rifting, volcanic eruptions and subvolcanic intrusions. We [...] Read more.
Iceland is one of the most recognizable and iconic places on Earth, offering an unparalleled chance to admire the most powerful natural phenomena related to the combination of geodynamic, tectonic and magmatic forces, such as active rifting, volcanic eruptions and subvolcanic intrusions. We have identified and selected 25 geosites from the Snæfellsnes Peninsula and the Northern Volcanic Zone, areas where most of the above phenomena can be admired as they unfold before the viewers’ eyes. We have qualitatively assessed the selected volcano–tectonic geosites by applying a set of criteria derived from previous studies and illustrated them through field photographs, unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV)-captured images and 3-D models. Finally, we have discussed and compared the different options and advantages provided by such visualization techniques and proposed a novel, cutting-edge approach to geoheritage promotion and popularization, based on interactive, navigable Virtual Outcrops made available online. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Geoheritage and Geotourism Resources)
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28 pages, 15542 KiB  
Article
Geotourism and the 21st Century–NTOs’ Website Information Availability on Geotourism Resources in Selected Central European Countries: International Perspective
by Agnieszka Rozenkiewicz, Krzysztof Widawski and Zdzisław Jary
Resources 2020, 9(1), 4; https://doi.org/10.3390/resources9010004 - 06 Jan 2020
Cited by 11 | Viewed by 6272
Abstract
The power of the Internet as a communicative and promotional tool in the contemporary world of tourism is unquestionable. Nevertheless, the context of online information availability referring to geotourism and georesources is very rarely addressed in the academic literature. This article undertakes research [...] Read more.
The power of the Internet as a communicative and promotional tool in the contemporary world of tourism is unquestionable. Nevertheless, the context of online information availability referring to geotourism and georesources is very rarely addressed in the academic literature. This article undertakes research into the online information availability on georesources presented on the official websites of the National Tourism Organizations (NTOs) of three selected Central European countries with similar geotourism conditions, namely the Czech Republic, Poland, and Slovakia. Their NTOs underwent a descriptive content analysis in order to highlight the dominating trends in the online presentation of georesources. As concluded in the article, information on geotourism resources available online is rather dispersed, as it is usually presented under divergent umbrella terms. Therefore, measures need to be taken to present a holistic online picture of geoheritage on an international level of availability, where certain pieces of geotourism-related information correspond with each other, accurately applying the system of hyperlinks. The research outcomes and suggestions for the future may find applicable use for various stakeholders of the tourism industry, especially the authorities responsible for different levels of its promotion. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Geoheritage and Geotourism Resources)
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25 pages, 7291 KiB  
Article
Geoheritage as a Tool for Environmental Management: A Case Study in Northern Malta (Central Mediterranean Sea)
by Lidia Selmi, Paola Coratza, Ritienne Gauci and Mauro Soldati
Resources 2019, 8(4), 168; https://doi.org/10.3390/resources8040168 - 26 Oct 2019
Cited by 30 | Viewed by 6471
Abstract
The recognition, selection and quantitative assessment of sites of geological and geomorphological interest are fundamental steps in any environmental management focused on geoconservation and geotourism promotion. The island of Malta, in the central Mediterranean Sea, despite having a steadily increasing growth in population [...] Read more.
The recognition, selection and quantitative assessment of sites of geological and geomorphological interest are fundamental steps in any environmental management focused on geoconservation and geotourism promotion. The island of Malta, in the central Mediterranean Sea, despite having a steadily increasing growth in population and tourism, still conserves geological and geomorphological features of great relevance and interest, both for their contribution to the understanding of the geological processes acting through time on landscape and for their aesthetic importance. The present work proposes an inventory for northern Malta, through three main stages, with the outcome of a final list of geosites that have the potential to be recognized as both natural heritage and tourist resources with potential economic benefits. In particular, the assessment methodology applied combines scientific value and additional and use-values, showing the links existing between geoheritage and other aspects of nature and culture of the sites. The results provide useful knowledge for the definition of strategies aimed at the development of a sustainable and responsible tourism. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Geoheritage and Geotourism Resources)
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18 pages, 4272 KiB  
Article
Assessing Geotourism Resources on a Local Level: A Case Study from Southern Moravia (Czech Republic)
by Lucie Kubalíková
Resources 2019, 8(3), 150; https://doi.org/10.3390/resources8030150 - 22 Aug 2019
Cited by 58 | Viewed by 5750
Abstract
In the last decades, the geotourism has shown a considerable growth all over the world and it is appreciated and accepted as a useful tool for promoting natural and cultural heritage and for fostering local and regional economic development, especially within rural areas. [...] Read more.
In the last decades, the geotourism has shown a considerable growth all over the world and it is appreciated and accepted as a useful tool for promoting natural and cultural heritage and for fostering local and regional economic development, especially within rural areas. Geotourism focus especially on the geological and geomorphological aspects of the landscape; however, according to the current holistic approach, it also builds on the close relations between geodiversity and other assets of the territory, such as biodiversity, archaeological and cultural values, gastronomy or architecture. Currently, geotourism activities are promoted mainly within geoparks, but other regions also possess an important geotourism potential. A complex assessment of the geotourism resources of a particular area is crucial for geotourism-development. The paper presents two case studies from Southern Moravia (Czech Republic) where the assessment of geotourism’s potential was made by using the geomorphosite concept and extended SWOT analysis. Results show that these areas (situated outside the geoparks or large-scale protected areas and not far from a big city) have considerable potential for geotourism development, and geodiversity can be considered an important resource for local and regional development. Based on this, conclusions about the possibilities of geotourism development outside the geoparks are outlined. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Geoheritage and Geotourism Resources)
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22 pages, 13390 KiB  
Article
“Perugia Upside-Down”: A Multimedia Exhibition in Umbria (Central Italy) for Improving Geoheritage and Geotourism in Urban Areas
by Laura Melelli
Resources 2019, 8(3), 148; https://doi.org/10.3390/resources8030148 - 17 Aug 2019
Cited by 20 | Viewed by 5368
Abstract
Multimedia materials represent a promising approach to the promotion of geoheritage. Despite geology being normally associated with natural environments, new tendencies are noted towards better knowledge of the “geological reason” for the selection of a location and the development of urban settlements. The [...] Read more.
Multimedia materials represent a promising approach to the promotion of geoheritage. Despite geology being normally associated with natural environments, new tendencies are noted towards better knowledge of the “geological reason” for the selection of a location and the development of urban settlements. The urban environment is, in fact, a perfect laboratory for opening the scientific topics to a broad audience. In this paper, the experience of a geological exhibition organized in the city of Perugia (Umbria, central Italy) is discussed, highlighting the SECRET (SEe and CREaTe) for creating an effective dissemination activity. Panels, interactive tools, laboratories, and trekking tours outside the museum are the main activities, which hosted more than eight thousand visitors in a few months. Moreover, the exhibition was the starting point for ongoing projects on geotourism in the city, with important consequences in terms of visibility and financial return. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Geoheritage and Geotourism Resources)
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13 pages, 10602 KiB  
Article
Devil Landforms as Resources for Geotourism Development: An Example from Southern Apulia (Italy)
by Paolo Sansò
Resources 2019, 8(3), 131; https://doi.org/10.3390/resources8030131 - 26 Jul 2019
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 4076
Abstract
The landscape of Murge Tarantine limestone ridge (southern Apulia, Italy) is marked by the presence of an isolated relief showing a singular shape and name, the Monte del Diavolo (i.e., the Devil’s Mount). The Monte del Diavolo is located in a very interesting [...] Read more.
The landscape of Murge Tarantine limestone ridge (southern Apulia, Italy) is marked by the presence of an isolated relief showing a singular shape and name, the Monte del Diavolo (i.e., the Devil’s Mount). The Monte del Diavolo is located in a very interesting area from a geological point of view since it shows an E–W trending high-fault scarp, the morphological effect of the right-lateral transtensive North Salento Fault Zone. The Monte del Diavolo is a small isolated conical relief reaching at its top 115 m above m.s.l.; it elevates about 20 m from the surrounding plain surface, stretching at about 95 m altitude. Its evolution has been influenced by the occurrence of strongly cemented breccia deposits, most likely due to cave roof collapse and calcite precipitation, which are more resistant to the karst denudation process than surrounding limestones. This paper would be the first step towards the cultural promotion of the Monte del Diavolo area, which is marked by geological and geomorphological peculiar features and by a relevant archaeological and natural heritage as well. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Geoheritage and Geotourism Resources)
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28 pages, 16484 KiB  
Article
The “Fan of the Terre Peligne”: Integrated Enhancement and Valorization of the Archeological and Geological Heritage of an Inner-Mountain Area (Abruzzo, Central Apennines, Italy)
by Tommaso Piacentini, Maria Carla Somma, Sonia Antonelli, Marcello Buccolini, Gianluca Esposito, Vania Mancinelli and Enrico Miccadei
Resources 2019, 8(2), 118; https://doi.org/10.3390/resources8020118 - 24 Jun 2019
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 5295
Abstract
The outstanding cultural heritage of Italy is intimately related to the landscape and its long-lasting history. Besides major cities, famous localities, and park areas, several minor places and areas hide important features that allow the enhancing of inner-mountain and hilly areas as well [...] Read more.
The outstanding cultural heritage of Italy is intimately related to the landscape and its long-lasting history. Besides major cities, famous localities, and park areas, several minor places and areas hide important features that allow the enhancing of inner-mountain and hilly areas as well as local natural reserves. This enhancement is supported by combining different types of cultural tourism, such as the archeological and geological ones. In this paper, an integrated geological–archeological itinerary is presented, which aims to valorize both these aspects in the inner-mountain areas of the central Apennines. The itinerary, called the “Fan of the Terre Peligne”, is focused on the Terre Peligne area located in the Sulmona basin, in the central-eastern part of the Apennines chain (Abruzzo region, central Italy). It is composed of five sectors (one for each of the municipalities included) and incorporates traditional physical tools and digital ones. Here, the evidence of the Apennines formation is preserved from the origin of marine carbonate rocks to their deformation and the landscape shaping. The Terre Peligne intermontane basin became—and still is—one of the main transit areas for crossing the Italian peninsula since before Roman times and here many stages of Italian history are preserved. This allows outlining of the presence of man since prehistoric times, and here the name “Italia” was defined for the first time, in Corfinio, and to testify the connection between human and landscape history. A SWOT (strengths–weaknesses–opportunities–threats) analysis highlighted the main strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats. Combining geological and archeological elements, which are intimately connected in this area, this itinerary intends to be an instrument for the enhancement and awareness of the natural and cultural heritage of a poorly known area that features outstanding geological, landscape, and human elements of the history of the inner Apennines. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Geoheritage and Geotourism Resources)
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