Geotourism and geoethics as support for rural development in the Knjaževac municipality, Serbia

Abstract The main goal of this study is to emphasise the geotourism potential and values geoethics as drivers rural development in territory Knjaževac municipality, which one richest areas Serbia terms geoheritage. Numerous objects geomorphological hydrological heritage stand out an area 1,202 km 2 . Despite richness geoheritage, has been ignored by many stakeholders, geoheritage not sufficiently explored proposed for tourism purposes. This makes inventory geosites municipality Knjaževac. selected sites were evaluated applying Modified Geosite Assessment Model discover most suitable future development, order select geosite that possesses greatest support development. results uncover information about major improvement each geosite. Moreover, demand more attention better management upcoming period become recognisable destinations identified. It pointed geoethical implications can contribute sustainable geoconservation Eastern Serbia.