Madara Rider

Social and economic benefits of cultural heritage tourism in the city of Shumen

Cultural heritage tourism in Shumen, Bulgaria, primarily benefits from domestic visitation due to the pandemic's impact on international travel. The study reveals that local tourists are drawn to a combination of historical significance and natural beauty at key sites like Madara Rider, Shumen Fortress, and others. While these sites offer substantial social and economic value, they require additional financial support to sustain operations. The research, based on surveys of 508 visitors in 2021, explores motivations, perceptions, and economic impacts, highlighting the need for balanced development strategies to leverage tourism's potential while ensuring long-term viability.