Preserving Identity Through Toponymy: Geoheritage as a Tool for Sustainable Tourism on Asinara Island

Geoheritage and tourism can converge in promoting an appreciation for the genius loci of a territory, but they often conflict when landscapes are reshaped according to the market-driven logic of modern tourism. This is particularly evident in toponymy, where place names are frequently altered to align with popular tourist attractions, such as media products or events. Such practices threaten the preservation of territorial identity, especially in natural areas, by erasing the historical narratives embedded in the environment. Our case study focused on the island of Asinara (Sardinia, Italy), a national park and protected area. The island is characterized by seasonal tourism that often overlooks the deep interconnection between anthropogenic and natural elements. Through an integrated approach that combines cartography and geo-historical analysis, it was explored how place names can serve as repositories of the historical relationship between humans and the environment. Toponyms associated with local flora, fauna, historical events, and human activities were geolocated and analyzed, with particular attention to their interpretation through the Sardinian language. This method provided insights into the multidimensional identity of the territory, encompassing its temporal and spatial dimensions, and moves beyond an anthropocentric perspective. Overall, the findings highlighted the importance of employing toponymy and geoheritage in the development of conscious and sustainable tourism strategies. By leveraging authentic storytelling rooted in the historical and cultural essence of the territory, such approaches could effectively promote the area while preserving its identity and fostering a deeper connection between visitors and the landscape.