1. Sacred or sold? : A systems approach to balancing spirituality and commercialisation in faith-based tourismTadeja Jere Jakulin, Dane Munro, 2026, original scientific article Abstract: This paper examines the complexity of pilgrimage tourism, with its interdependencies among sacredness, spirituality, and commercialisation at faith-based tourism destinations. We use a Systems Approach to move beyond linear thinking that positions spirituality and commerce as inherently oppositional forces, arguing that pilgrimage destinations function as complex adaptive systems in which spiritual, commercial, and educational objectives interact dynamically. We build Causal Loop Diagrams (CLDs) formed from autoethnographic observation and stakeholder discussions. We present and compare four pilgrimage sites: Lourdes (France), Brezje (Slovenia), Malta, and Istanbul’s Hagia Sophia (Türkiye). The CLD models reveal the dynamics of the pilgrimage sites, the interdependencies, and the interactions among stakeholders (elements of the system). The systems approach demonstrates that successful destinations manage pilgrimage sites as integrated systems in which activities complement and constrain one another through feedback loops. Using a Systems Methodology, the article develops the dynamics of pilgrimage environments and presents a new typology of four pilgrimage (sacred) and commercial (secular) destinations. By advancing knowledge and education, the spiritual-commercial role of the sacred- secular destinations in question offers a different, comprehensive approach to their management.
Keywords: religious tourism, commercialization of pilgrimage, spiritual authenticity, systemic dynamics, management of sacred sites, heritage education
Published in RUP: 06.05.2026; Views: 287; Downloads: 9
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2. Make Osor great again : accessible archaeology between island and cloudZrinka Mileusnić, 2025, original scientific article Abstract: Osor, a small settlement, embodies the tension between exceptional archaeological significance and limited contemporary accessibility. Once a key maritime and ecclesiastical centre of the northern Adri- atic, it is today marked by demographic decline, infrastructural constraints, and strong tourism sea- sonality. This article conceptualises accessibility as a multidimensional heritage problem that extends beyond physical access to include interpretation, knowledge circulation, and public engagement. Fo- cusing on digital heritage tools, particularly the concept of a digital twin, it argues that digitally me- diated access can transform archaeological research into a distributed educational and cultural in- frastructure. Osor is presented as a pilot case for rethinking heritage promotion, interpretation and presentation in small and remote sites, aligning archaeological interpretation with sustainability, inno- vation, and learning.
Keywords: archaeological heritage, digital heritage, accessibility, digital twin, sustainable tourism
Published in RUP: 06.03.2026; Views: 356; Downloads: 14
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3. History and Practice of Contract Archaeology in NamibiaGoodman Gwasira, 2025, original scientific article Abstract: This article traces how contract archaeology in Namibia emerged and consolidated after 1990 at the intersection of environmental regulation, donor requirements, and large-scale development – especially mining and energy infrastructure. It shows that, for decades, practice was largely self-regulated in the absence of national guidelines, drawing authority from Environmental Impact Assessments and the National Heritage Act. Comparing regional standards (e.g. SAHRA, ASAPA), the paper argues for clear standard operating procedures, professional accreditation, and capacity building to ensure ethical, consistent work that contributes to scholarship and community engagement. It concludes that Namibia now has an opportunity to professionalise the field, leverage ‘grey literature’ for research, and align heritage protection with sustainable development.
Keywords: contract archaeology, Namibia, environmental impact assessment, cultural heritage management, heritage impact assessment
Published in RUP: 21.01.2026; Views: 497; Downloads: 5
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10. Archaeological tourism products : towards a concept definitionKatharina Zanier, Tajda Senica, 2023, original scientific article Keywords: archaeological tourism, archaeological tourism products, cultural tourism, cultural tourism products, archaeological parks, archaeological routes, archaeological heritage management, sustainable development
Published in RUP: 03.11.2023; Views: 2829; Downloads: 32
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