Geoturistic hazard in hypogeum karst landscape: an example from Frasassi Cave (central Italy)

The study of geomorphological hazards in tourist areas has been addressed only recently, mostly because in areas of high touristic value any risk for excursionists or for simple nature lovers represents a strong conditioning factor to the fruition and therefore to the economy of an entire area. The geomorphological hazard can turn into a considerable risk, if one takes into account the increasing human pressure even in remote areas. The development of tourism, in fact, brings an increasing number of people to discover and attend both areas prone to hazards for some time, both in areas where these hazards are being increased. The complexity and multiplicity of these changes require necessarily a greater attention not only for a correct comprehension of natural phenomena but mostly for their possible interactions with tourism ttendance and fruition. Based on previous experiences, also as a result of research projects funded by the Italian Ministry for the University and the Research (MIUR). A study on the natural hazards related to the touristic fruition in the area of Frasassi Cave in the Marche region (central Italy) is following presented.