Attitudes and Perceptions of Local Communities Towards Inscribed World Heritage Properties: A Case Study of “Palestine Land of Olives & Vines”—Cultural Landscape of Southern Jerusalem
摘要
This study is motivated by the critical role that communities play in the sustainability and development of tourist destinations. The research focuses on the World Heritage Site “Palestine Land of Olives & Vines Cultural Landscape of Southern Jerusalem, Battir,” specifically Battir Town. The goal is to understand the community’s attitudes and perceptions towards the site’s World Heritage designation and subsequent tourism development. The researcher collected data through personal interviews, field observations, and desk literature reviews to determine Palestine’s and the site’s value within the World Heritage framework. The findings reflect positive community attitudes, as well as pride in the town’s prominent status among Palestinian and international rivals. The study concludes by recommending cost-effective solutions for managing the rising tourism-related activities and improving local community cooperation. Recommendations include constructing a drop-off point distant from the Municipality Building, such as the Bab el-Zqaq area. This move seeks to offer visitors an appropriate distance and time to experience the town while reducing traffic congestion. To diversify site visits and spread tourist impact, the study recommends adding the Old Town area in the approved itinerary. Additional enhancements include upgrading existing routes with identifying fences and drystone walls. Repurposing restored buildings into visitor centres or service facilities improves the overall visitor experience. Furthermore, the study recommends marking a trail across the land, particularly on terraces used for seasonal farming (e.g., the Roman Pool and Ein El-Balad areas). This method seeks to preserve and protect the site’s values.