EGE 12TH INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE ON APPLIED SCIENCES
DEVELOPMENT OF ARCHITECTURAL AND NATURE TOURISM IN SAFRANBOLU WITHIN THE CONTEXT OF SUSTAINABILITY: OPPORTUNITIES, RISKS AND RECOMMENDATIONS
Yayıncı:
Academy Global Publishing House
Safranbolu is an important cultural tourism destination listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its historical heritage and natural beauty. The architectural richness and natural landscape of the city offer significant opportunities for sustainable tourism practices. This study examines how architectural and nature tourism in Safranbolu can be developed within the framework of sustainability principles, while also analyzing the opportunities and risks encountered in this process. Safranbolu, with its Ottoman-era houses, mosques, inns, and baths, is one of Turkey’s most significant cultural heritage regions. In addition to its historical structures, the region’s natural attractions, such as Tokatlı Canyon and Bulak Cave, enhance its tourism potential, especially for ecotourism and nature tourism. The paper highlights key opportunities for the development of tourism in Safranbolu, such as the preservation of the region's unique architecture, support for cultural crafts, and the promotion of nature tourism. However, the negative impacts of mass tourism should not be overlooked. Mass tourism and inadequate infrastructure can lead to the degradation of both historical structures and natural areas. Unregulated tourism development threatens the cultural and natural fabric of the city, making sustainable tourism planning a necessity. Additionally, it is noted that the city’s wooden structures are vulnerable to risks such as fires and natural disasters, necessitating preventive measures. The study presents recommendations for sustainable tourism practices that aim to preserve Safranbolu's cultural and natural heritage while generating economic benefits. The socioeconomic impacts of tourism, environmental risks, and the pressures of tourism on the city's sustainability are also examined. In this context, it is emphasized that local governments, nongovernmental organizations, and the tourism sector must collaborate to ensure balanced tourism development in Safranbolu. Strategies must be developed to protect the cultural and natural heritage, raise awareness among local communities, take precautions against risks such as fire safety, and carefully manage the potential of nature tourism. In conclusion, a careful planning and management approach is essential to both increase Safranbolu's touristic appeal and protect its cultural heritage.
