IŞIK SEZEN
REYHAN REİS
ELİF AKPINAR KÜLEKÇİ
SERKAN ÖZER
Abstract
Although cultural heritage is a general concept given to works created by previous generations and believed to have universal values, it consists of all important values that remind societies and members of society of their common past and contribute to the dominance of feelings of unity and solidarity. The purpose of ensuring the sustainability of these values by preserving should be to protect the natural resource base on which future development will depend. In this context, it is concluded that the basis of reaching the future depends on the protection of existing resources. The essence of the definition of sustainability is not to endanger and compromise the needs of future generations while meeting our own needs in order to perpetuate human life. Therefore, this concept combines ecological, social and economic components together. The aim of this study is to determine the importance and economic contributions of preserving the Kars Ani Ruins, which is on the world cultural heritage list, and bringing it to the present day, to develop the sense of protecting the regional economy and the people living in the region. In this study, Phenomenology design, one of the qualitative research designs, was used and random sample selection was made. The structured interview form was used in selecting the data collection tool. Within the scope of the study, a literature review on cultural heritage, sustainability, economic contribution and Ani Ruins was conducted. A group focus meeting was held with eight people who live in Kars province and Ani Ruins and contribute to the tourists who participate in cultural tourism from the touristic products offered by the cultural heritage. With the recording of the interview form, the data and themes were coded and presented in tables. According to the results of the research; It has been observed that the income levels of the people of the region who protect their cultural heritage and values have increased. At the same time, the importance of the contribution of the preservation and sustainability of the cultural heritage to future generations was mentioned. It has been concluded that in order to meet the increase in demand in cultural tours, it is necessary to protect the cultural heritage and to ensure its sustainability.
Keywords
Cultural heritage, Sustainability, Economic contribution, Ani ruins
