Conference Topics

Integrating Heritage Preservation and Sustainable Tourism Development

This panel explores strategies to balance the safeguarding of historical and archaeological sites with the growing demands of tourism. Discussions will focus on minimizing environmental and cultural impacts while maximizing economic and educational benefits. Contributions may include case studies on transforming underutilized or neglected heritage sites into thriving cultural hubs, museums, or tourist attractions. Additionally, the panel will explore the role of policy frameworks, urban planning, and stakeholder collaboration in promoting sustainable heritage tourism.

Community-Led Revitalisation of Cultural Landmarks

This panel highlights the critical role of local communities in preserving and promoting cultural heritage through sustainable practices and inclusive tourism. Emphasis will be placed on the importance of intangible cultural heritage, including festivals, re-enactments, and exhibitions, in creating awareness, revitalising cultural landmarks, and generating economic opportunities. Discussions will also explore collaborative governance models and public-private partnerships as tools to empower local communities and ensure the long-term sustainability of revitalisation projects.

Technological Innovations in Cultural Tourism

Focusing on the intersection of science, technology, and cultural heritage, this panel examines the use of tools such as virtual and augmented reality, digital storytelling, and hard sciences (e.g., biology, geology, chemistry, and physics) to better understand, preserve, and revitalize historical and archaeological assets. Submissions are encouraged that showcase how these innovations attract diverse audiences, enhance accessibility for individuals with disabilities, and bring cultural sites to life.

Cultural Heritage, Shared Identities, and Cross-Cultural Exchange

This panel explores the role of cultural heritage in shaping shared cultural and national identities, with a focus on themes such as continuity, rootedness, inclusivity, and minority representation. It will also examine the potential of cultural tourism to foster cross-cultural understanding, highlighting its role in preserving genocide memory and safeguarding minority heritage. The discussion will emphasise tangible and intangible heritage as tools for dialogue and mutual recognition across cultures.

Environmental and Conflict-Related Threats to Cultural Heritage

This panel investigates the impact of environmental factors, war, and human-induced conflicts on the deterioration of cultural sites and artefacts. Contributions are sought that identify the causes of damage, explore the role of local communities in fostering resilience, and propose practical, innovative solutions for the protection and preservation of endangered historical and archaeological heritage. Special attention will be given to technologies for monitoring, documenting, and mitigating risks.