Community Engagement and Sustainable Heritage Tourism: Mediating Role of Archaeological Heritage Interpretation

This article aims to explore the role of archaeological heritage interpretation in promoting sustainable heritage tourism and community engagement. Antandros heritage site in Türkiye is selected as the research case. The study employs qualitative analysis methods, to examine the archaeological heritage interpretation practices implemented by the Altinoluk Association for Recovery Conservation and Sustention of Antandros Ancient City, a local NGO in Altınoluk, Türkiye. The findings highlight the significance of archaeological heritage interpretation in sense-making and creating awareness among visitors about the value of heritage in guiding the preservation, presentation, and promotion of heritage, and engaging communities through a multi-stakeholder approach where a local NGO has a prominent position in incorporating heritage interpretation into sustainable development plans.