CULTURAL HERITAGE AS A SUPPORT FOR RURAL TOURISM

In the current transformation process of Slovak rural areas, the natural and cultural values offer an interesting potential to attract visitors as well as build and support local identity. Nowadays, a lot of various activities and cultural events which represent a significant historical and symbolic capital are presented in new and creative ways. The study deals with the cultural heritage within the framework of the Village Renewal Programme and the national competition Village of the Year, in correlation with rural tourism. The aim is to highlight the idea of the aforementioned activities from the point of view of an ethnologist. The author used the basic ethnographic methods, study of literature, materials and documents. Field research was conducted by the method of observation and interviews with mayors and citizens of the villages of Dobra Niva, Hrusov and Sebechleby. The study points to the new, creative forms for the presentation of cultural elements. Attention is focused on events supporting the local identity and the utilization of the local specifics in favour of rural tourism.