Wolin Island, tourism and conceptions of identity

The study focuses on conceptions of the identity of Wolin Island, the area located in the southern part of the Baltic Sea. Identity is regarded as a complex phenomenon, and the research incorporates two primary perspectives: socio-cultural and spatial. Investigations reveal that key factors affecting the identity of the island include tourism development and a post-war history connected with significant migration processes. In consequence, the relationships between tourism and identity have been emphasised.Investigation of the theme is accompanied by an analysis of the role of external elements posing a threat to Wolin’s identity. They include worldwide factors, which embrace a cultural shift, devaluation of landscape or place meaning, and more site-specific processes, such as the local growth of the heritage industry. The discussion is followed by reflections on intrinsic features of identity and its evolution. In conclusion, main elements for construction of Wolin Island’s identity are distinguished, and the lack of dependence on ‘islandness’ is noted.