SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT OF RURAL TERRITORIES IN THE PENZA REGION BASED ON CULTURAL POTENTIAL

In the context of the search for new models of regional development that are not associated with the extensive exploitation of natural resources, the use of unique cultural and historical heritage is becoming increasingly important. The purpose of this study is to assess the cultural potential of rural areas in the Penza Region as a basis for their sustainable socio-economic development, primarily through the development of specialized forms of tourism. The study uses methods of spatial analysis, statistical data processing (Rosstat, registers of religious and ethno-cultural organizations), and cartographic and comparative approaches. It has been established that the cultural landscape of the region is characterized by a deep multi-ethnic and multi-religious diversity, which is materialized in the specific location of heritage sites (584 temples and 59 mosques). A close correlation (Pearson coefficient of 0.65) has been identified between the location of these sites and the ethno-demographic structure of the population. Based on the analysis,