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HIERARCHIZATION AND TYPOLOGICAL CLASSIFICATION OF THE GEOSITE NETWORK AS A FOUNDATIONAL FRAMEWORK FOR THE ESTABLISHMENT OF THE POTENTIAL DOLNY SPIS GEOPARK, SLOVAKIA
Abstract
The study focuses on the assessment of geosites in the Doln- Spis region of eastern Slovakia as a foundational framework for the establishment of a potential geopark. This region is characterized by significant geological diversity, notable geomorphological features, and substantial anthropogenic heritage, particularly related to historical mining activities. Based on the inventory of 42 geosites, a typological classification was conducted, dividing the sites into six main types and several subtypes. The evaluation methodology applied a modified version of the M-GAM (Modified Geosite Assessment Model), which enables a comprehensive assessment of geosites based on scientific, aesthetic, conservation, functional, and touristic criteria. According to their M-GAM scores, the geosites were subsequently ranked into four hierarchical levels of importance (local, regional, national, and international). The results revealed that five geosites reach international importance, confirming the high geotourism potential of the area. The study provides a methodological tool for the systematic assessment of geosites in the planning process of establishing a potential geopark, supporting its role as an effective model of regional development grounded in geoscientific knowledge.
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