Geotouristic Approach to the Elements of Geocultural Heritage by Using UGAM Model: UNESCO World Heritage Site Felix Romuliana (Zaječar, Serbia)

Abstract

This article presents a new Urban Geoheritage Assessment Model (UGAM) for the tourism potential of urban geoheritage. The model was applied to the well-known archaeological site Felix Romuliana (Serbia), so as to determine if the site has the potential to become an urban geosite. To support the UGAM model, a mineralogical-petrographical examination of the building stone available to visitors (both on the site and in the Zaječar National Museum) was carried out, and geological outcrops near the site were observed. The obtained results indicate a significant petrographic diversity, with igneous (volcanic subgroup) rocks (hornblende andesite, red porphyry), along with sedimentary rocks (sandstone, lumachella), volcaniclastic rocks (volcaniclastic sandstone) and metamorphic (marbles) rocks. By comparing the obtained results with the local geology, two groups of building stones were recognised: a) stones of local provenience (hornblende andesite, lumachella, sandstone and volcaniclastic sandstone) and b) imported stones (red porphyry and marbles). UGAM parameters, such as educational potential, protection level, visitor safety, and promotional activities, confirmed that Felix Romuliana has great potential for urban geotourism development. However, parameters related to tourist infrastructure, such as the information centre, local accommodations, and restaurant services are minimal, and would need to be upgraded. The results of this study can inform policymakers, local governments and other interested stakeholders whether and how to develop urban geotourism in the future at Felix Romuliana.