CULTURAL HERITAGE AS A DRIVER FOR SUSTAINABLE TOURISM DEVELOPMENT IN JIU VALLEY

The natural landscape of Jiu Valley serves as the region’s main attraction for tourism. Besides its natural resources, Jiu Valley has also a rich cultural heritage through its coal mines and the culture of the momârlani rural community. By capitalizing on this heritage, the region can develop a sustainable tourism sector that does not depend only on its natural resources and can diversify tourists’ experiences. This paper explores the potential for cultural heritage to drive tourism development in Jiu Valley, with specific reference to the Momârlani, their traditions and the museums dedicated to preserving their culture.