Long-Term Development Trend of the Historical Cultural Landscape of the UNESCO Monument: Vlkolínec (Slovakia)

A comprehensive analysis of Vlkolínec, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Slovakia, reveals significant changes in its cultural landscape over nearly 250 years while emphasizing the need for balanced preservation and sustainable development. The study, using historical maps, aerial photographs from 1769 to 2017, and a 2017 questionnaire survey involving residents and users of the area, identified 13 key landscape elements and their transformations under natural and socio-economic pressures. Findings highlight the tension between maintaining Vlkolínec's unique heritage value and accommodating modern demands for living standards and tourism. The research proposes actionable plans to ensure the site’s long-term protection without compromising its authenticity or potential for sustainable growth.

Petrovič, F., Boltižiar, M., Rakytová, I., Tomčíková, I., & Pauditšová, E. (2021). Long-Term Development Trend of the Historical Cultural Landscape of the UNESCO Monument: Vlkolínec (Slovakia). Sustainability, 13(4), 2227. https://doi.org/10.3390/su13042227