Publications
Cultural heritage and the teaching of local history
Cultural heritage, including historical legacies and social practices, plays a pivotal role in social development. A study on the Viñales Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1999, demonstrates that integrating cultural heritage into local history education can serve as an effective tool for knowledge preservation and reinterpretation across generations. The research highlights how tangible and intangible assets, deeply rooted in environmental interactions, contribute to societal growth when used as teaching content. By analyzing the relationship between cultural heritage and local history, the study underscores its potential for safeguarding heritage while fostering social development. This approach offers a model for heritage education that can be applied globally.
Geomorphological Heritage in Viñales National Park (Aspiring UNESCO Geopark): Geomatic Tools Applied to Geotourism in Pinar del Río, Cuba
A comprehensive analysis of Viñales National Park (VNP) has identified 20 geosites of significant geological interest, with the Viñales Valley and Santo Tomás Polje ranking highest for their geoheritage value. Using advanced geomatic tools—including digital terrain modeling and virtual itineraries—the study mapped key geomorphological features such as poljes, valleys, and mountain fronts to assess their potential for geotourism and conservation. The research employed a multi-layered approach, integrating relief, drainage, slope, lithology, and geomorphology data to evaluate sites based on criteria from the Spanish Institute of Geology and Mining. Findings highlight the park's diverse geological landscapes, with values ranging up to 1050 for the Viñales Valley, underscoring its importance as an aspiring UNESCO Geopark.
Impacts of ‘home stays’ on the protected urban landscape and the social environment (Viñales, Cuba)
Home stay tourism in Viñales Valley, Cuba, significantly alters the protected urban landscape and social dynamics. The study found that 392 rental homes contribute to the reduction of green spaces, introduction of modern building materials, and architectural changes, while also imposing labor burdens primarily on women, disrupting daily routines and exacerbating social inequalities. Researchers interviewed 74 landlords to assess these impacts, revealing both economic gains and social costs. This work highlights the dual-edged nature of tourism in heritage sites, where development benefits come at the expense of cultural integrity and equity.
Agriculture in Viñales Valley, Cuba
Viñales Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in western Cuba, showcases a unique living cultural landscape where traditional agriculture thrives amidst bulbous limestone cliffs. This study highlights the valley's significance as both an agricultural and artistic destination, emphasizing its imaginative qualities through visual submissions such as drawings, illustrations, or photographs. The research approach involves inviting readers to contribute their creative works alongside explanatory information, fostering a dynamic interaction between scientific documentation and artistic expression. By blending traditional farming practices with artistic representation, Viñales Valley stands out as a model of sustainable cultural heritage preservation.
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