The Role of Localizing the Management of Archaeological Site Museums in the Sustainable Development of Cultural Tourism: A Comparative Study of Bandiyan and Vestmin
Site museums, as cultural and educational institutions, play an important role in preserving archaeological heritage and enhancing visitors’ experiences. This study aims to develop a localized management model for archaeological site museums in Iran through a comparative analysis of the two historical sites of Bandiyan and Vestmin. The research adopts a qualitative archaeological approach, with data collected through documentary studies, interviews with experts, and field observations.
The findings indicate that ownership status, physical conditions, and current patterns of site use have a direct impact on the effective functioning of site museums. The absence of a clearly defined management framework and locally appropriate standards for the conservation, presentation, and interpretation of archaeological sites has resulted in several challenges, including the underutilization of tourism potential, inadequate conservation and restoration, and declining visitor engagement.
The comparative analysis demonstrates that each archaeological site, given its specific conditions and characteristics, requires a flexible and adaptable management model incorporating spatial organization, physical conservation, cultural and educational activities, and tourism programs. The study concludes that there is a need to establish a localized management model based on the cultural and social characteristics of Iran. Such a model can contribute not only to increasing visitor engagement but also to ensuring the long-term sustainability and conservation of archaeological sites. It can further serve as a practical framework for site museum managers, cultural planners, and conservation specialists, while contributing to the sustainable development of cultural tourism and strengthening community engagement with historical heritage.
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