ITACOATIARAS OF INGA ARCHAEOLOGICAL SITE: FROM TOURISM TO ECOTOURISM AS A CONSERVATION ALTERNATIVE

ABSTRACT:

The Itacoatiaras of Ingá, known as Pedra do Ingá, are a rocky set with complex primitive inscriptions that still raise mystery as to their origin, generating several interpretations and local tourism. However, anthropic and natural actions have been causing negative impacts on the conservation of this heritage. The aim of this study was to analyze tourism practiced and ecotourism as an alternative for environmental and sociocultural conservation at the Itacoatiaras do Ingá archeological site, Paraíba, Brazil. It is a qualitative research, with documental and field research, with a survey of local attractions and the use of semi-structured interviews with actors involved with the site (managers, guides, tourist conductors, tourists and local population). The collected data were analyzed through categorical-thematic content analysis in order to assess the unexplored potentials, the impacts of negative anthropic actions and the perceptions and images that the people of Inga have about the site. It was observed the lack of infrastructure in the municipality to receive tourists, problems related to the preservation of the monument and the entire archaeological site and an incipient participation of the local population in the activity developed. Thus, ecotourism and the application of its principles can be a sustainable alternative for the city, the archaeological site and for the residents

KEYWORDS:
Cultural heritage; Tourism; Development