The workshop on “Maintaining the Balance: Heritage Preservation and Sustainable Tourism in Rural and Remote Areas” will be held from 26th to 30th June 2023 in the heartland of Cyprus. The workshop is funded and organized by UNITWIN/UNESCO, with co-organization from the heartland of Cyprus.
The heartland of Cyprus, specifically the Troodos Mountain Range, holds significant geological, cultural, and historical importance. It is home to the Troodos World Geopark, which combines geological heritage with cultural and historical sites. The region boasts ancient ruins, traditional villages, religious sites, and Byzantine churches that are recognized as UNESCO World Heritage sites.
The workshop aims to address the challenges of balancing heritage preservation and sustainable tourism in rural and remote areas, focusing on the case study of the Cyprus heartland. It aims to analyze the current state of heritage tourism development in the region, identify opportunities and challenges for sustainable tourism, and share best practices from around the world. The workshop also aims to raise awareness among stakeholders about the importance of sustainable heritage tourism and develop an action plan for promoting sustainable tourism in the heartland of Cyprus.
Expected outcomes of the workshop include film production, publication of working papers, a presentation day/symposium, and the development of an action plan with concrete steps and timelines. The workshop will bring together 30 experts, including local government officials, community groups, environmental organizations, tourism practitioners, and academics. Cyprus Deputy Ministry of Tourism will be cohosting the workshop.
The workshop will commence in Limassol with presentations and meetings with key stakeholders, followed by a visit to the Troodos Mountains. Participants will explore painted churches, engage in workshops on Byzantine hagiography and dry stone walling, visit museums and wineries, and have opportunities for outdoor activities. The workshop will conclude with a presentation of the results and a round table discussion with the Cyprus Deputy Ministry of Tourism and other key stakeholders.
Prof Dr Amareswar Galla will be attending the workshop as part of the UNESCO-UNITWIN Network member.
Additional Documentation