ABSTRACT

In the twentieth century, the Fonséranes Lock shared with the entire Canal du Midi the passage from commercial tool to tourist attraction. Since then, the lock has been celebrated and recognised as a heritage site, both at national and international level. However, full awareness of its tourist potential was shown more in promotional strategies than in management on the ground. Until 2015, problems in accessibility, lack of safety and poor infrastructure negatively impact on the tourist experience. The site is now (2016) undergoing a renovation project which aims to offer a quality tourist experience through a sustainable valorisation, but still leaves some problems unresolved.