Assessing Geotourism Resources of the Moldavian Plateau. Case Study: Repedea Geomorphosite
Assessing Geotourism Resources of the Moldavian Plateau. Case Study: Repedea Geomorphosite

Summary/Abstract: Repedea Hill, located approximately 9 km south of Iași City, Romania, is a site of exceptional geological, geomorphological, ecological, and cultural importance. Situated at the boundary between the Central Moldavian Plateau and the Jijia Hills, the area stands out for its high geodiversity, primarily shaped by Sarmatian limestone formations that create distinctive karst landscapes. Repedea was the subject of Romania’s first geological paper written in Romanian, which laid the foundations of Romanian geoscience and advanced the understanding of the Moldavian Plateau’s geomorphology. Despite its scientific significance and remarkable geodiversity potential, the site remains underutilized in terms of geotourism development. This study assesses the potential of Repedea Hill to be integrated into a future UNESCO Global Geopark, focusing on its geoheritage and sustainable valorization. The research combines field surveys with an extensive literature review to evaluate the site’s geological, geomorphological, ecological, and cultural features. The findings emphasize the exceptional scientific value of Repedea Hill while identifying major challenges, such as inadequate infrastructure, limited accessibility, and insufficient conservation efforts. Consequently, the paper proposes a set of management and geotourism strategies centered on sustainable development, environmental education, and improved visitor facilities. These include the development of thematic trails, interpretive panels, and a visitor center designed to foster public awareness and ensure the site’s long-term protection. Overall, Repedea Hill holds strong potential as a model for sustainable geotourism in the Moldavian Plateau, capable of enhancing the visibility of Romania’s geoheritage and contributing to the economic revitalization of one of Europe’s less-developed regions.

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