How authenticity is negotiated and experienced by clergy and tourists at religious World Heritage sites: taking a closer look into the ‘preserve as found’ strategy

A study reveals that the 'preserve as found' strategy at religious World Heritage Sites, such as the Painted Churches in the Troodos Region, shapes how authenticity is both negotiated and experienced by clergy and tourists. This approach, which prioritizes maintaining sites in their original state, influences perceptions of sacredness and heritage value. The research employed qualitative methods, including interviews with clergy and observations of tourist interactions, to explore these dynamics. Findings suggest that while the strategy preserves historical integrity, it also creates complex negotiations between conservation goals and visitor expectations, highlighting the need for balanced approaches to heritage management.

Thouki, A. (2024). How authenticity is negotiated and experienced by clergy and tourists at religious World Heritage sites: taking a closer look into the ‘preserve as found’ strategy. Journal of Heritage Tourism, 19(4), 623–647. https://doi.org/10.1080/1743873x.2024.2327439