Conference paper
Maritime heritage as tourism potential – Kvarner Maritime Heritage
Kvarner Tourist Board
; Kvarner Region Tourist Board, Opatija, Croatia
Abstract
Kvarner has a long-standing and profound connection with the sea, which has shaped its identity,
culture, and economy. To preserve and promote its maritime heritage, the Kvarner Tourist Board
launched the Kvarner Maritime Heritage brand in 2019. This branding initiative enabled the systematic
promotion of maritime heritage through cultural and tourism-related products, strengthening Kvarner’s
position as a cultural tourism destination. Significant contributions to the development of the brand
came from EU-funded projects such as Mala Barka, Mala Barka 2, and Arca Adriatica.
Notably, the successful collaboration between the Kvarner Tourist Board and the Primorje-Gorski Kotar
County, lead partner in the aforementioned projects, as well as with the Maritime and History Museum
of the Croatian Littoral in Rijeka, played a key role. Additionally, the Coordination of Associations for
the Preservation of Maritime, Fishing and Shipbuilding Heritage of Kvarner and Istria – Traditional
Sails of Kvarner and Istria, has significantly contributed to a systematic approach to the preservation
and revitalization of Kvarner’s maritime heritage.
The brand encompasses a network of 90 interpretive signs, 24 thematic itineraries, 16 restored
traditional boats, 5 major maritime events, and 4 interpretation centers. These activities promote
maritime heritage through education, workshops, entertainment, and interactive content, tailored to a
broad audience, including younger generations.
The brand has also gained international recognition and today serves as a successful model of
integrating tradition, tourism, and the local community in the creation of an authentic and sustainable
cultural product.
Keywords
Hrčak ID:
336239
URI
Publication date:
5.10.2025.
Visits: 328 *