Publications
In Search of New Dimensions for Religious Tourism: The Case of the Ancient City of Nessebar
Despite its rich religious heritage and UNESCO World Heritage status, the Ancient City of Nessebar remains underutilized for religious tourism. A study by Mileva and Krachanova (2024) reveals a complex interplay between mass tourism, cultural preservation, and the waning influence of traditional religious practices in the region. Using mixed-methods approaches—including documentary analysis and case study methodology—the research highlights the untapped potential of Nessebar’s religious sites to enhance tourism experiences while preserving their historical significance.
Lost in Transition? Historical Geographies of World Heritage and Tourism in Bulgaria
Bulgaria's transition from socialism has left its UNESCO-listed Ancient City of Nessebar in a governance limbo, where outdated state-centric models persist despite political upheaval. A qualitative study combining interviews and archival research reveals that heritage tourism remains inefficiently managed, plagued by funding gaps, weak protection mechanisms, and uncertain policies. While the 1989 fall of socialism reshaped global power dynamics, its cultural legacy—particularly in heritage politics—has been overlooked. The findings underscore an urgent need for a new strategy to balance tourism growth with sustainable preservation, challenging post-socialist nations to redefine their approach to World Heritage conservation.
Living with the world heritage. An ethnographic study of the ancient city of Nessebar, Bulgaria
The Ancient City of Nessebar, Bulgaria, faces significant challenges due to the interplay between tourism development and its status as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. An ethnographic study reveals that post-1989 economic liberalization has intensified pressures on heritage conservation, with private investors and corrupt practices undermining safeguarding efforts. Residents grapple with complex issues such as trust in institutions, property rights, social justice, local identity, and the transformation of cultural heritage into economic capital. The study highlights conflicting dynamics between tourism interests and heritage preservation, offering insights into the broader tensions surrounding World Heritage Sites.
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