The mediating role of visitor experience in the effect of dark tourism rituality on revisit intention

This study aims to examine the relationships between dark tourism rituals, visitor experience and revisiting tendency. For this purpose, a survey method was used to evaluate how dark tourism rituals shape the visitor experience in museums in Istanbul. A total of 400 data sets were obtained through the survey. The validity and reliability of the scales were examined in line with the collected data. The findings showed that dark tourism rituals positively affect visitor experience and the tendency to revisit. In particular, the historical and emotional depth of destinations such as the July 15 Martyrs' Monument and Dolmabahçe Palace increases the potential for revisitation by meeting the learning and empathy needs of visitors. Another finding is that visitor experience significantly increases the propensity to revisit. In addition, visitor experience fully mediates the relationship between dark tourism rituals and the propensity to revisit. This finding suggests that rituals alone are not enough; they need to be supported by a positive and enriching experience. The results provide guidance for tourism managers and policy makers. Destinations should develop authentic rituals, enrich the experience with informative materials, and improve basic service quality. In this way, dark tourism destinations will both strengthen social memory and ensure their sustainability.