Evaluation of the UNESCO World Heritage Process with the Approach of Tourism Geography: The Example of the Historical Port City of Izmir
Project no. 23526 · Status: Kapanmış · 2022
Summary
<p>Studies related to cultural heritage are handled by various disciplines such as geography,</p><p>history, art history, archaeology, anthropology, urban planning and management, folklore and</p><p>many disciplines approach the subject of cultural heritage from different angles. Today,</p><p>publications in the international literature that deal with the relations between tourism,</p><p>development, culture and cultural heritage with the tourism geography approach strengthen</p><p>the science of geography and increase the motivation of this thesis study. In this study, it is</p><p>aimed with the approach of tourism geography to understand the geographical-historical</p><p>importance of Izmir Historical Port City, approach the subject in the context of cause-andeffect</p><p>relations, prioritize the use of tourism as a tool in entering the UNESCO World</p><p>Heritage List, look for ways to evaluate the Historical Port City of Izmir through tourism,</p><p>draw attention to the supporting function of tourism in local development efforts, make</p><p>comparisons on a global, regional and local scale, to comprehend the current problems of</p><p>Izmir and Izmir Historical Port City area related to tourism and to develop solution proposals,</p><p>convey awareness about current trends in tourism, evaluate the opinions of expert</p><p>stakeholders. For these purposes document review, comprehensive field studies,</p><p>participation-based observations and on-site analysis methods were followed, and in-depth</p><p>interviews were held with stakeholders who play an important role in the UNESCO World</p><p>Heritage process of Izmir Historical Port City. A case study based on the qualitative method</p><p>was created. According to the findings and results obtained in the study; The current situation</p><p>of tourism in Izmir Historical Port City, which has the potential to enter the UNESCO World</p><p>Heritage Permanent List, is not at the desired level. The UNESCO World Heritage process</p><p>and registration is the most important tool in changing the current situation and image of the</p><p>Historical Port City of Izmir. In addition, the UNESCO World Heritage is a privileged tool</p><p>for tourists and locals. However, sustainability-based approaches should be taken into</p><p>consideration both in the planning and management of tourism and in all other aspects of area</p><p>management.</p><p>Keywords: Cultural Heritage, UNESCO, Historical Port City of Izmir, Tourism, Tourism</p><p>Geography.</p>