The Alta Murgia, in the Puglia region of Italy, has been officially recognized as a UNESCO Global Geopark, joining a network of areas with exceptional geological value. This achievement presents an opportunity to develop sustainable tourism that promotes the region's unique geological, natural, and cultural heritage.
The Geopark boasts a variety of attractions, including the Bauxite Mines, the Pontrelli Quarry with dinosaur footprints, the Pulo di Altamura, and the Lamalunga Cave, home to the famous Altamura Man. The goal is to create immersive experiences for visitors, ranging from hiking and food and wine tours to cultural exploration and environmental education.
The Puglia Region and the Geopark Authority are collaborating to develop diverse and sustainable tourism packages. The Geopark will participate in the BIT - International Tourism Exchange in Milan from February 9th to 11th, showcasing its model of slow and responsible tourism, appealing to environmentally conscious travelers.
The European Charter for Sustainable Tourism (CETS) is a key pillar for the growth of quality tourism within the Geopark. The Geopark Authority is continuing the certification process for local operators, with 40 entities already recognized, including 27 tourism businesses and 13 licensed tour guides. The third phase of the CETS will focus on tour operators and travel agencies, developing specific Geopark tourism packages to attract visitors while respecting natural resources.
A Destination Management Organization (DMO) for the MurGEopark territory is being established. This non-profit organization will coordinate and promote the tourism offer, managing attractions, accessibility, marketing, and promotion of the area. The Puglia Region has identified seven homogeneous areas for the creation of DMOs, with the possibility of adapting them to the needs of local communities.
Francesco Tarantini, Extraordinary Commissioner of the Geopark Authority, emphasized the importance of structured and conscious tourism: "The UNESCO recognition is a starting point for building a sustainable tourism offer. With the involvement of the Geopark municipalities and the support of the Region, we are working to enhance the excellence of MurGEopark, offering authentic experiences to visitors and new growth opportunities for local communities."
Gianfranco Lopane, Puglia's Tourism Minister, highlighted the strategic value of tourism governance: "The Alta Murgia UNESCO Geopark represents an extraordinary opportunity, but also a responsibility. Our goal is to integrate protection, enhancement, and development, creating tourism packages that offer slow tourism experiences, capable of uniting nature, culture, and food and wine. Participation in the BIT in Milan will be an opportunity to present this vision at a national and international level."
This meeting marks the beginning of a broader journey to make MurGEopark a leading destination for sustainable tourism, combining conservation and responsible use of the territory. With the collaboration of institutions, operators, and local communities, the Alta Murgia is preparing to write a new chapter in the enhancement of its environmental and cultural heritage.