Title: The attractiveness of archaeological sites in Greece: a spatial analysis

Authors: Serafeim Polyzos, Garyfallos Arabatzis, Stavros Tsiantikoudis

Addresses: Department of Planning and Regional Development, School of Engineering, University of Thessaly, Pedion Areos, 383 34 Volos, Greece. ' Department of Forestry and Management of the Environment and Natural Resources, Democritus University of Thrace, Pantazidou 193, 682 00 Orestiada, Greece. ' Department of Forestry and Management of the Environment and Natural Resources, Democritus University of Thrace, Pantazidou 193, 682 00 Orestiada, Greece

Abstract: This paper deals with the attractiveness of the archaeological sites, historical monuments and museums found in Greek prefectures. The object of this paper is to analyse and describe what influences this attractiveness. Several factors are examined, which are related to the characteristics or uniqueness of each site, its scientific or historical value, the state and attractiveness of the surrounding natural environment, the site|s accessibility, its archaeological or tourist potential, etc. A statistical model is proposed, using actual data from Greece, in order to estimate the influence of each factor on the total attractiveness of archaeological sites or museums. Finally, conclusions are drawn based on the quantitative analysis provided.

Keywords: tourism; archaeological sites; regional development; Greece; historical monuments; museums; attractiveness.

DOI: 10.1504/IJTP.2007.017040

International Journal of Tourism Policy, 2007 Vol.1 No.3, pp.246 - 266

Published online: 04 Feb 2008 *

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