SCIENTIFIC TOURISM AND HYDROELECTRIC HERITAGE: A CASE STUDY OF THE DOURO RIVER DAMS
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Abstract
Scientific tourism has increasingly emerged as a tourism modality capable of bridging knowledge production, environmental education, heritage interpretation, and the sustainable development of territories. In this context, dams may be regarded not only as infrastructures for energy production and water regulation, but also as scientific, technological, industrial, and landscape heritage with tourism potential. This study analyses the potential of the Douro river dams, in Portuguese territory, for the development of scientific tourism products and experiences. An exploratory and qualitative approach was adopted, based on a literature review and complemented by documentary analysis and direct observation of the Crestuma-Lever, Carrapatelo, Bagaúste, Valeira, and Pocinho dams between 17 and 19 July 2026 and located exclusively within Portuguese territory. The findings highlight resources related to engineering, hydrology, energy, biodiversity, navigation, landscape, and technological history, with potential for interpretive visits, educational activities, and citizen science initiatives. It is concluded that the tourism valorisation of these infrastructures may enhance scientific and environmental literacy, diversify the tourism offer, and promote regional hydropower heritage, while requiring appropriate safety conditions, qualified interpretation, institutional cooperation, and environmental balance.
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