FUNKCJE TURYSTYCZNE ZAMKÓW MAZOWSZA

In comparison to other architectural monuments, historical castles attract both overseas and domestic tourists. The prime problem involves catering to the needs of the visitors without destroying the character of the unique historical environment. As tourism continues to progress, the solution of this dilemma becomes ever more crucial in the case of historical castles. The majority of Mazovian castles fulfils the function of a museum or a gallery, a state of things which, apparently, is welcome both from the point of view of the need to protect historic monuments and the development of sustainable tourism (sightseeing conceived as an educational activity, and cultural tourism, which involves concerts, theatre performances, competitions, and festivals). Some castles also play the role of the cultural centres of local communities, thus becoming an important landmark. It should also be stressed that select castles, particularly those located beyond popular tourist routes, still enjoy a chance to become interesting and significant centres which could influence the cultural life of local communities and implement education programmes pertaining to the tradition and history of a given region (with emphasis on local identity). Such a proposal of new forms of cultural life (thanks to the initiative of the local authorities as well as the castles' administrators) would simultaneously offer an opportunity to promote the region and develop sustainable forms of tourism (sightseeing and cultural tourism). Key words: historical environment values; cultural heritage protection; sustainable tourism development; educational and historical space; proecological forms of tourism.