STEĆCI - MEDIEVAL TOMBSTONES AS GREAT POTENTIAL FOR DEVELOPMENT OF TOURISM IN WESTERN HERZEGOVINA REGION

Stećci - medieval tombstones, in all aspects of their appearance, represent a specific segment of cultural and historical heritage of Bosnia and Herzegovina, the western parts of Serbia and Montenegro and the central or southern parts of Croatia. (UNESCO, 2105, 123) This paper analyses current situation of the medieval necropolises of tombstones in western Herzegovina in order to draw attention to insufficient valorisation in the tourist offer, despite the fact that this cultural heritage is on the UNESCO World Heritage List. The situation on the field, points to the conclusion that cultural and historical heritage is not particularly appreciated in the local or wider context. Collective awareness of its conservation is at a low level, because of insufficient knowledge of the same matter. Medieval tombstones disappear daily because of the climate change and atmospheric action, inadequate legal protection, but also insufficient education of human factor. Survey research was conducted with the local population, which is a key factor for a higher degree of valorisation in the analysed area. The main goal is to get to know and educate the population about the importance of the tombstones, which have left a significant trace in the culture and traditions of modern times.