Dark Tourism: The Experiences of Foreign Tourists Visiting the Gallipoli Peninsula Historical National Park

Abstract

Every tourism destination has a series of attractiveness that distinguish itself from the others. In this context, Çanakkale that is rich in historical attractiveness is a globally well-known dark
tourism destination. Gallipoli Peninsula Historical National Park, so-called “authentic open airmuseum” has a great importance and value within the national and international scope.
Therefore, investigating the dark tourism experiences of tourists visiting Gallipoli Peninsula
Historical National Park, could come up with instructive results both for tourism professionals,
private and public institutions shaping the tourism industry and tourism academicians. In order for achieving this goal, data collected from 39 foreign tourists visited Gallipoli Peninsula
Historical National Park through structured interview form have been analyzed. Through the
descriptive analysis technique under the qualitative data analysis method it has been
understood that the participants have perceived the Gallipoli Peninsula Historical National Park as a well-preserved, well-reflecting the spirit of the 1915s and an instructional dark tourism destination; however, some deficiencies and challenges regarding infrastructural,
superstructural and environmental issues have been bookmarked. Tourists, putting the clock
back, feel sorrowful and peaceful while visiting cemeteries, graveyards and monuments claim
that necessary lessons could be taken from the wars in the past and could be contributed to the world peace thanks to the tourism.