Summary
The Qhapaq Ñan, a 4000 km Andean road system spanning six countries and inscribed as UNESCO World Heritage in 2014, exemplifies the complex interplay between cultural patrimonialization and geopolitical narratives. This study reveals that while the route symbolizes shared memory and potential for ecotourism, its fragmented appropriation and conflicting narratives—ranging from glorification to rejection—undermine consensus. The research employs a heuristic approach to analyze patrimonialization processes, focusing on the challenges of balancing transnational cultural values with local interpretations. Unlike typical tourist routes, Qhapaq Ñan's non-touristic status highlights tensions between heritage preservation and economic development, offering insights into the geopolitical dimensions of UNESCO-listed sites.
Citation
Salin, E. (2021). Routes patrimoniales et narrations plurielles : le Chemin de l’Inca (Qhapaq Ñan, Camino principal andino / Andean road system) le cas particulier d’une route patrimoniale non touristique ? Via Tourism Review, 20. https://doi.org/10.4000/viatourism.7334