Μεθοδολογία ανάπτυξης πολιτιστικών διαδρομών

Βλάρα, Αικατερίνη

Master Thesis

Author

Βλάρα, Αικατερίνη

Date

2024

Abstract

Cultural routes represent a valuable imaginary line that connects the past with the present, creating a bridge that allows visitors to explore the diversity of cultures. By integrating history, art and tradition, cultural itineraries highlight the rich diversity that characterises each region. The usefulness of these routes for tourism is undeniable. They are a source of inspiration for visitors, offering them the opportunity to immerse themselves in local culture, understand history and enjoy art and customs from a unique perspective. In addition, tourism based on cultural itineraries contributes to the preservation of cultural heritage and local development. However, there is a need for a new, more comprehensive methodology for creating cultural itineraries. This method should include common cultural factors, technology and community involvement in order to create experiences that fully showcase the richness and culture of each place. In this way, cultural itineraries will become dynamic tools that connect people and cultures, offering meaningful experiences that enhance international cultural dialogue. This paper focuses on a methodology for developing cultural itineraries, combining existing methodologies from the Council of Europe and ICOMOS, based on the bibliographical findings and field research. We proceed to a detailed evaluation of the processes of both of the above-mentioned methodologies, then present a new approach. The new methodology proposed consists of three main stages. Firstly, a literature survey is carried out, followed by the recording and documentation of the tourist and cultural wealth. Then, consultation actions are implemented using Cultural Mapping, thus providing a framework for dialogue and community participation. The third stage focuses on the creation of thematic tourism packages, as well as on the effective communication and management of cultural itineraries. In order to analyse the impact and dynamics of the Council of Europe Cultural Routes, extensive research has been carried out using a variety of approaches. The analysis covered primary research and focus group discussions, each focusing on different aspects of the complex network of stakeholders. The first phase of the research included a secondary literature review and primary research among members of the Council of Europe Cultural Routes in Greece, aiming to gather information from active participants. The evaluation of the Cultural Routes, the examination of members' views and the identification of evaluation criteria were central objectives. The results of the survey provide a thorough analysis of cultural routes in Greece. When asked about the uniqueness of cultural routes, themes emerged that reflect the perception of the participants. Important elements include the importance of cultural monuments, heritage, long history and the natural environment. While in a question on effectiveness, a positive performance on customer orientation was observed, but there are areas for improvement such as innovation, financial performance and working with partners. In the area of quality of heritage and resources, high ratings are observed, but there are areas for improvement, in particular with regard to the physical condition of the resources. In the tourism development proposals, strategies such as organising festivals, preserving historic buildings and strengthening online marketing are suggested. In addition, the importance of local community participation and the need for databases are stressed. In addition, a focus group discussion was held with 35 members and participants on cultural routes, with participation from various Council of Europe cultural routes in Greece. The meeting aimed to promote cooperation and exchange of best practices, held online. Issues such as strengthening cooperation, identifying effective practices, as well as strategies for the future development of cultural routes were discussed. The meeting proved to be productive and insightful, with members agreeing on the need for enhanced collaboration and exchange of ideas. Topics discussed included protection for new routes, challenges in funding and management, and the need for unified efforts in marketing and management. Topics included cooperation and good practices, the importance of cooperation at local and national level, and the need for balance in cultural orientations. Cooperation in the fields of tourism and sustainability was also discussed, and a strategic approach to the management and marketing of cultural routes was proposed. Finally, funding challenges were highlighted and itinerary development was proposed, with an emphasis on seeking innovative solutions. The proposed methodology aspires to provide an integrated framework that capitalises on the best aspects of previous approaches, while offering an integrated and effective way of developing cultural itineraries that reflect multicultural heritage and promote cultural tourism.

Postgraduate Studies Programme

MBA Tourism Management - Πρόγραμμα Μεταπτυχιακών Σπουδών στη Διοίκηση Επιχειρήσεων - Μάνατζμεντ Τουρισμού

Department

Σχολή Οικονομικών, Επιχειρηματικών και Διεθνών Σπουδών. Τμήμα Οργάνωσης και Διοίκησης Επιχειρήσεων

Number of pages

Language

Greek

URI

https://dione.lib.unipi.gr/xmlui/handle/unipi/16439
http://dx.doi.org/10.26267/unipi_dione/3861

Collections

Τμήμα Οργάνωσης και Διοίκησης Επιχειρήσεων

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Except where otherwise noted, this item's license is described as
Αναφορά Δημιουργού-Μη Εμπορική Χρήση-Όχι Παράγωγα Έργα 3.0 Ελλάδα