Geoheritage and Dark Tourism in Iasi (Romania): From Building Stones to Sustainable Tourism Development

Located in northeastern Romania within the Moldavian Plateau, Ia?i is a vital hub of culture, history, and religion. This paper explores the relationship between dark tourism and geotourism in the Ia?i region, examining how geological and geomorphological features relate to cultural and historical sites. Although both tourism types are relatively new and underdeveloped in Romania, their combination offers untapped potential for sustainable urban tourism. The study presents an example of a themed tour that integrates geological heritage with notable buildings and monuments tied to historical and often dark stories. References from geomorphology, geology, culture, history, and literature were analyzed to identify these locations. By connecting geological formations with artistic and architectural significance, the tour promotes educational engagement and heritage preservation. The research advocates for establishing geoparks to help promote natural and cultural heritage. The integrated approach supplies valuable data for geoheritage conservation, monument restoration, and urban planning, taking into account geological factors and regional identity. Ultimately, this study aims to improve the visibility of Ia?i's geo-cultural landscape and support the development of alternative tourism models that are both educational and emotionally impactful.