Symbols and identity of a region: analysis of perception of natural symbols in areas with profoundly changed landscape in Czechia
Abstract
This paper deals with the natural potential for the formation of territorial identity in the Karlovy Vary, Ústí nad Labem, and Liberec regions of Czechia (regional self-governing units). The main objective is to contribute to the discussion about the importance of nature and landscape (natural symbols) in forming the sense of belonging to regions on various levels, specifically to assess the differentiation of natural symbolism of the regions in perception of a representative sample of the Czech population (the survey conducted by Public Opinion Research Centre - CVVM).
The obtained data are compared with the analysis of inclusion of specific landscape elements in the formation of the spatial and symbolic shape of regions. Simultaneously, utilization of natural localities in creating the external image of the region at regional and national levels are monitored in a positive sense (the use of natural resources to increase interest in the region, compared to the intensity of nature and landscape conservation by the regional institutions) and also in a negative sense (the impact of nature and landscape damage on the perception of the regions).
The survey confirmed that the natural potential plays an important role in the process of forming territorial identity in the studied areas. The data demonstrate territorial differentiation in perception of the natural heritage and landscape that is positive as well as negative.
However, the difference in perception of regions regarding spatial proximity was not identified.