Geoheritage and Geotourism Resources

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

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