Valorization of religious sites in the function of the development of religious tourism in the Republic of Croatia

Religija i duhovnost oduvijek su privlačili čovjeka. Hodočasnici su od samih početaka hodali kilometrima do dalekih destinacije u kojima su se nalazila za njih posebna sveta mjesta moleći svoje zaštitnike za pomoć, zagovor, zaštitu i utjehu. Nekadašnji razlozi putovanja prisutna su i danas. Kao poseban oblik turizma u kojem leži ogroman potencijal razvio se vjerski turizam, kako u Republici Hrvatskoj, tako i u svijetu. Republika Hrvatska je bogata svetištima, osobito marijanskim. Uz svako se svetište veže zanimljiva legenda koja bi se trebala iskoristiti u turističke svrhe. Sakralne objekte koje čine crkve, samostani i kapelice poznati su diljem Hrvatske, ali i svijeta. Takve građevine i objekti odličan su primjer kulturno-povijesne baštine i duhovnog razvoja.Religion and spirituality have always attracted man. Pilgrims have traveled miles from distant destinations to distant destinations where special sacred places were located, praying their patrons for help, intercession, protection, and comfort. Reasons for trips that were once present were the same as today. Religious tourism has developed as a special form of tourism in which enormous potential lies, both in the Republic of Croatia and in the world. The Republic of Croatia is rich in sanctuaries, especially Marian. With every shrine there is an interesting legend that should be used for tourist purposes. Sacral objects made up of churches, monasteries and chapels are known throughout Croatia, but also the world. Such buildings and facilities are an excellent example of cultural and historical heritage and spiritual development