Baia Mare Geological and Mining Park - a potential new Geopark in the northwestern part of Romania

Abstract

The Baia Mare region is a very well known mining area, with an excellently studied regional geology in Romania. The geological heritage has been strongly incorporated in the economic and social development of the region which is now subject to the cease of the mining-based activities. The natural heritage, as well as the historical and cultural values of the region, will contribute substantially to the future development. The region of Baia Mare has a high potential for founding a new Geopark in the Gutâi Mts. volcanic area. The main geological, mining/archaeological/historical, ecological and cultural issues of the Baia Mare region offer opportunities for protection and conservation, education and sustainable development, in accordance with the UNESCO guidelines and criteria for establishing a Geopark in a new region. These issues are based on the scientific value, esthetics and a specific geology and mining. This indicates that the impressive natural heritage, as well as the hundred)