Session: #739

Content:

Tourism has become a critical shaping force for contemporary socio-economic urban landscapes and a central strategic focus in regeneration policies. Mediterranean cities are currently affected by the tourism industries in particular ways. Their rich cultural and archaeological heritage plays a twofold role in the touristic urban development. On the one hand, it comprises an integral part of the identity of the place and, on the other, it serves as a powerful incentive for the tourist attraction of many cities. In this context, the narrative of the past is often re-contextualized through contemporary tourism practices, including the ‘disneyfication’ of archaeological sites, one-dimensional heritage interpretations of contested sites, and the superficial ‘museumification’ of cities. This session aims to discuss the different preservation strategies employed in the re-branding of heritage for tourist purposes in the Mediterranean by both the state and private stakeholders. In particular, we would encourage papers that explore topics such as the distinct socio-political and economic circumstances behind national tourism development policies that include archaeology in them; and papers that provide an overview of the international relationship between overseas heritage management politics, urban development and the expansion of tourism. We also welcome contributions analysing the origins of tourism urban planning and new approaches of heritage management. Finally papers debating on the success or failure of archaeological tourism in regeneration policies are also encouraged to contribute to this session. Contributions that offer comparative perspectives, especially across countries are especially welcome.

Session: #739

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