TOURIST VALORIZATION OF THE CENTRAL CULTURAL CORE OF PRILEP, BASED ON HILARY DU CROS’ MODEL

Monika Taleska; Sašo Korunovski

doi:10.20544/hisj.2025.588

Authors

Monika Taleska University “St. Kliment Ohridski“– Bitola, Faculty of Tourism and Hospitality – Ohrid, North Macedonia
Sašo Korunovski University “St. Kliment Ohridski“– Bitola, Faculty of Tourism and Hospitality – Ohrid, North Macedonia

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.20544/hisj.2025.588

Keywords:

Cultural Heritage, Tourism, Motivation, Valorization, Hilary Du Cros Method, Prilep

Abstract

This paper identified and investigated the cultural assets of Prilep that had the potential to generate economic benefits for the local community, recognizing cultural heritage as a key factor in tourism. It examined the influences on tourists and the role of cultural-historical monuments in tourism development. The research focused on six monuments representing various periods of Prilep’s cultural history. Valorization was conducted using Hilary du Cros’ method, designed to assess the tourist potential of cultural heritage. Findings based on sub-indicator analysis placed Prilep in cell M (2,3) of the tourist valorization matrix, confirming strong potential for cultural heritage tourism. However, to fully realize this potential and ensure sustainability, a strategic, integrated approach was considered essential. The results highlighted the need for planned management, continuous monitoring and promotion, infrastructure development, and mitigation of negative impacts from tourism, including risks to cultural assets due to investment projects. Based on the findings and assuming key conditions were met, it was proposed that Prilep be included on North Macedonia’s tourist map.

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