Heritage-led development of rural regions: A case study of south-western Romania

Among different tourism markets, cultural tourism is of primary importance for many European countries, not only in terms of economic drive but also as a contributing factor in the construction of new identities for certain regions. Romania - a country that possesses a rich tangible and intangible cultural heritage, including numerous fortified and painted churches, castles, conjuncts of medieval architecture, as well as important cultural traditions - constitutes one such example, where the valorization of cultural heritage could lead to territorial development and economic regeneration. The chapter addresses this topic by analyzing the ways in which the religious built heritage of Romania s south-western Regions could provide an opportunity for encouraging tourismbased business development, especially in rural destinations. ©