THE TERRITORY CONJUNCTION, LANDSCAPE, HERITAGE AND CULTURAL HERITAGE AS A TOURIST PRODUCT: THE CASE OF THE RICOTE VALLEY (MURCIA REGION) SOUTHEAST OF SPAIN

Abstract

In the Ricote Valley, in the interior of the Region of Murcia, there are mountains,
centenarian orchards, and small and medium-sized settlements, historically structured
around the Segura River. The territorial and landscape structure of its central zone
has not varied in its basic aspects in the last 500 years. The amalgamation of nature,
culture (Romans, Arabs, Jews and Christians), use of water and territory, has given rise
to a landscape singularity of important heritage value, as reflected in the qualifications
given to its natural and human elements. Giving rise to an outstanding tourist interest.
Traditional isolation has been one of its outstanding characteristics. Knowing the
resources of the territory with tourist interest, and the accessibility to them, constitute
the objective of this study. Being located the significant elements in the territory, and
analyzed their qualifications. In addition to the analysis of the accessibility to the Valley.