From Archives to Dark Tourism: Routes in Athens and Attica
摘要
The research delves into the phenomenon of dark tourism, which encompasses visits to sites associated with tragedy, suffering, and death. Initially coined in 1996, dark tourism spans locations like battlefields, torture sites, and cemeteries. It raises ethical considerations due to its sensitive nature, demanding respectful presentation and visitor behavior. However, there’s a lack of explicit guidelines for structuring dark tourism experiences, despite the popularity of destinations like Auschwitz and Hiroshima. Seeking to fill this gap, the study explores 19th-century archives in Athens, uncovering new narratives for dark tourism. Using My Maps, researchers developed routes around the city of Athens and Attica region, focusing on the intriguing figure of Sophie de Marbois-Lebrun, the Duchess of Plaisance (1785–1854). Two walking routes, 5 km and 3 km in length, were created, providing narratives via a dedicated app to enhance the visitor experience. This innovative approach aims to enrich dark tourism offerings while respecting historical events and figures.