The Romanian region of Oltenia de sub Munte is now an aspiring UNESCO geopark – a project headed by the Kogayon Association.
Florin Stoican, the president of the Kogayon Association, the driving force behind the project to turn Oltenia de sub Munte into a UNESCO Geopark, has previously been involved in the project that saw Buila-Vânturarița, an extremely biodiverse area, become a nature park. This would make Oltenia de sub Munte the third UNESCO geopark in the country after Țara Hațegului and Ținutul Buzăului, reports Romania Insider.
The region covers six localities in Vâlcea county and is renowned for its varied landscapes, cultural landmarks, and natural attractions, mostly found in the Buila Vânturariţa National Park. This park is a recognized Natura 2000 site and hosts numerous nature reserves, positioning it as a biodiversity hotspot. Despite being the smallest national park in the country, the area spans nearly 4,500 hectares and boasts historical monuments, traditional architecture, and local customs.
The proposed geopark includes several nature reserves and the Hurezi monastery, a recognized UNESCO Heritage site. Established in 1690, this monastery is a true masterpiece of the Brâncovenesc style, notable for its architectural balance, intricate sculpture, and religious compositions. The region is also recognized for Horezu ceramics, another UNESCO heritage item.
The region recently hosted the Fireflies Festival, highlighting its rich biodiversity and natural heritage. The team behind the geopark initiative stresses the significance of responsible tourism, prioritizing quality over quantity and focusing on educational activities for visitors.
Although the initial plan to apply for UNESCO geopark status in 2022 was postponed due to the County Council’s refusal to approve the partnership with the project, Stoican intends to submit the application documents to UNESCO in November.
The project has garnered the most support from entrepreneurs in the tourism sector, who comprehend the potential benefits of promoting the region as a tourism destination. Despite the challenges, the journey to becoming a UNESCO geopark continues, with the hope of increasing the profile of Oltenia de sub Munte, enhancing its cultural and natural heritage, and stimulating growth and development in the region, reports BNN Network.
