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The primary aim of the project
was to build the capacity of the CEEweb network through a
twinning program between Ecological
Tourism in Europe and CEEweb.
Field trip and training session,
Banská Štiavnica, Slovakia
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After receiving the theoretical education, the second
phase of the project was a field trip to a case study
of sustainable tourism development in Slovakia, Banská
Štiavnica.
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Banská Štiavnica is the oldest mining town in Slovakia
well-known for its world priorities in mining, metallurgy,
education and in natural sciences. Privileges of the
royal town were granted to this town in 1238.
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Jano Rohac (Amber
Trail, Slovakia) presented the practical experiences
of the model project running for 4 years now in the
World Heritage site.
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Lectures were also held to gain insight to the background
and development of the project.
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The town is protected because of the spectacular landscape
and unique technical monuments of the rich mining tradition.
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During the guided tours in the town, we gained on-hand
experiences on the results of the last years, including
the information center and the reconstruction of certain
buildings. Unfortunately some of the historic buildings
are still not renovated.
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We visited the surrounding areas, including the mines,
one of the main attractions of Banska Stiavnica.
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During the first phase of the project, baseline information
was compiled. including the assessment of natural, cultural,
social and economic aspects.
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Based on this information, management plans were developed
for channeling tourists.
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The case study highlights, that there is a critical need
for developing partnerships, initiating dialogue among the
different stakeholders and getting their commitment. The most
important lesson of the model project is that without the
existence of appropriate consultation mechanisms, sustainable
development of tourism is simply impossible. The joint efforts
of all stakeholders affected is an essential requirement.
And what is striking in this case, that building up the structures
of continuous communication and consultation may take years.
It might seem an unreasonable effort, but the lack of commitment
of all stakeholders can completely undermine the success of
development projects of this kind.
Supported by PHARE Multi-Country Programme
"Environment and Enlargement"
This program is implemented with the financial
assistance of the European Union. The contents of this document
are the sole responsibility of CEEweb, and can under no circumstances
be regarded as reflecting the position of the European Union.
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