The role of cultural heritage in the development of mountain tourism: Case study Mountain Rudnik, Serbia

Rudnik Mountain, as the most dominant mountain in the Šumadija region, is located about 100 km south of Belgrade, which is connected to Ibar highway. Because of its exceptional climatic conditions, in 1922 it was declared an air spa, and the geologic-geomorphological features (mountain peaks more than 1000 m above sea level, lookouts, caves, etc.), as well as the wealth of water and preserved flora and fauna, contributed to its excursion potential. Archaeological findings testify to early habitation of the area. In ancient times the mountain was the scene of mining, and remnants of the period before and after the arrival of the Romans, the Serbian medieval state, and Turkish times are preserved. The preserved cultural heritage (monasteries: Blagoveštenje, Voljavča, Vraćevšnica, Nikolje and Petkovica; the residence of Prince Miloš, the remains of medieval towns; Ostrvica and Gradovi; archaeological site Misa; remains of mining pits and localities; rich monumental complex, etc.) had a significant role in the development of mountain tourism in Rudnik Mountain in Serbia. Regionally recognizable as a year-round holiday destination with great potential for excursion, recreation, sports, health, and other forms of tourism development, Mountain Rudnik has, thanks to the rich cultural heritage, a chance for popularization through various forms of trips, excursions, schools in nature, recreational classes, and other programs of travel agencies intended for children and adults