Analysis of Religious Centers in Cyprus in the Context of Tourism Potential

Abstract

Countries with significant tourism potential, rising population income levels, and regional development are directly dependent on the development and diversification of the tourism sector. The diversification trend in tourism is increasing the importance of culture, history, and faith‐based tourism types beyond traditional tourism. Although faith tourism has changed over time, it remains an indispensable form of tourism, maintaining its importance through people’s continued connection to faith and its socio‐economic contributions. Island countries like Cyprus have significant potential to advance and diversify tourism. Today, there are many places of worship considered sacred by Muslims and Christians in both Northern and Southern Cyprus. Cyprus has many important religious tourism sites, including the Hala Sultan Tekke, Lala Mustafa Pasha Mosque, Sinan Pasha Mosque, Hz. Ebubekir Mosque, Hz. Omar Tomb, Kırklar Tomb, St. Barnabas Church, and Bellapais Monastery. These sites are sacred to both Muslims and Christians, and this study examines their value for faith tourism, offering several recommendations to increase their tourism potential. Making these places of worship accessible to visitors within the scope of faith tourism will provide economic benefits to both Northern and Southern Cyprus and strengthen Cyprus’s identity as an island of love and tolerance. The findings of this study highlight that these places of worship are important tourist attractions not only for their religious functions but also because of their historical and cultural value. In future research, examining the visitor experiences and profiles of these places and conducting a comparative analysis of faith tourism policies in both Northern and Southern Cyprus will contribute to the development of a holistic and sustainable tourism approach across the island. Based on this, it is suggested that the attitudes of local people and religious authorities towards faith tourism be examined.