Writing Guidelines for “Natural and Cultural Heritage”
Natural and cultural heritage represents the tangible and intangible assets that embody the environmental, historical, cultural, and social values of societies, forming a vital foundation for tourism development and destination identity. Entries prepared for The Encyclopedia of World Tourism should present the relevant heritage site, asset, or heritage-related topic in an objective, academic, and source-based manner. The entry should examine its historical and cultural significance, distinctive characteristics, conservation status, and relationship with tourism. Where applicable, attention should also be given to heritage management, visitor experiences, sustainability issues, community involvement, and its contribution to local, national, and global tourism. All information should be supported by reliable and up-to-date sources.
Entry Format
1) Entry Title
[Name of the Structure/Site]
(If necessary, the province, district, or another widely known name may be added in parentheses.)
2) Introductory Statement (Descriptive Sentence)
The introductory statement should not exceed 250 characters.
In one or two sentences, briefly summarize the type of structure or site, its location, its construction/opening period or year, and its distinguishing characteristics.
3) Main Text
The main text must contain at least 400 words.
The sections “See Also” and “References” are not included in the word count.
The entry should begin with the introductory statement.
The following headings are recommended. They may be used directly or incorporated into the narrative of the text.
3.1 Type of Structure/Site
- Type: [Structure/site type, e.g., caravanserai, mosque, bridge, fortress, square, archaeological site, park, etc.]
- Function or intended use (if applicable): [Brief information]
3.2 Construction / Opening Year
- Year of construction/opening: [Year]
- Approximate date range (if applicable): [Century / Historical Period]
3.3 Patron / Builder(s)
- Patron or commissioning authority: [Person/Institution]
- Builder(s), architect(s), or master craftsman (if known): [Full Name]
- Inscription or documentary evidence (if applicable): [Brief information]
3.4 Historical Period of Construction
- Historical period in which the structure was built: [Seljuk, Ottoman, Early Republican, etc.]
- Context of the period (briefly): [Reason for construction, intended purpose, urban development context, etc.]
3.5 History of Use (Periods of Use and Non-Use)
- Periods of use and changes in function: [Chronological summary]
- Periods of abandonment or non-use (if applicable): [Date range + reason]
3.6 Notable Architectural Features
- Plan, materials, construction techniques, decoration, and other characteristics: [Brief explanation]
- Features that distinguish it from similar structures (if applicable): [Brief comparison]
3.7 Restoration / Conservation Status
- Has the structure/site undergone restoration? [Yes/No]
- Restoration or repair works (if applicable): [Year(s) + brief information]
- Registration, designation, or protection status (if applicable): [Brief information]
3.8 Current Status / Present-Day Use
- Current function: [Museum, place of worship, cultural center, open-air site, visitor attraction, etc.]
- Visitor access and visitation conditions (if applicable): [Brief information]
- Role and significance in tourism (if applicable): [Brief assessment]