THE IMPACT OF CULTURAL TOURISM IN THE DEVELOPMENT OF GJIROKASTRA - THE UNESCO TOWN

Abstract

Cultural heritage, constitutes a valuable part of the resources of a nation. It is a part which, by its complicated nature, is non-renewable and, thus constant effort should be made to protect and appreciate it in order to guarantee its enduring appeal and values as well as continuous operating profits. Towns like Gjirokastra belong here; they have always been among the most priviledged when it comes to art and culture observers and preservers. This is the reason why , in 2005, Gjirokastra became part of the World Cultural Heritage under the protection of UNESCO.The objective of this paper is the economic impact of this fact , focused mainly on the cultural and achitectural aspect of tourist development. Cultural tourism has its direct impact on the economic and social life of the community, considering aspects like employment, the value of cultural activities and their contribution in establishing healthy social relations, regional identity and urban development. The unique architectural values that Gjirokastra represents should be in the focus of all the factors involved in the preservation and development of these values such as local and central authorities and withour forgetting the major role of the local community. The paper concludes with recommendations for a good management of cultural heritage to all the abovementioned social factors.