Archaeological sites, modern communities, and tourism

Archaeology is a major component of the tourism industry in both developed and developing countries, which has especially significant implications for indigenous people and other disenfranchised groups. Archaeological tourism celebrates the cultural richness of a region’s history and has the potential to bring local or descendant communities financial gain. But what is the role of the archaeologist in the sustainable and responsible development and maintenance of archaeological tourism? Drawing upon their own field research, the authors suggest that when tourism and archaeological sites meet, archaeologists avoid arguments about ownership and act as facilitators for frank conversations about the consequences of tourism development for all parties involved.

► We present case material on the relationship between archaeology and tourism.
► We identify and discuss diverse stakeholders in archaeological tourism.
► We argue competing interests in archaeological tourism can undermine development.
► We support professional praxes based on open dialogue between stakeholders.
► We conclude that stakeholders focus on development consequences, not ownership.