Olive oil tourism: Research on olive oil museums

The purpose of this study is to reveal the current status of olive oil museums in turkey within the scope of olive oil tourism. ın this regard, a sample of seven olive oil museums in turkey was selected for analysis. The data collection process, which was conducted through the utilisation of structured interview questions, occurred between the 15th of may 2025 and the 1st of september 2025. Spain, a leading country in olive oil production and tourism worldwide, was considered the reference country within the scope of the study, and its olive oil museums were included in the analysis process. However, due to the reluctance of museum officials in spain to participate in the interviews, the websites of the relevant museums were examined and data was collected using content analysis methods. The present study thus sought to analyse the collections of the olive oil museums in turkey and spain, and the relationship of these museums with tourism, by means of a comparative analysis. The results of this analysis were intended to reveal the current situation. The findings of the study indicate that the establishment of olive oil museums in both countries was in accordance with cultural objectives. While the primary objective in turkish museums was to promote increased consumption of olive oil, in spanish museums, the emphasis was on instilling a sense of cultural heritage related to olive oil in future generations. It has been determined that the works exhibited within the scope of olive oil tourism offer sufficient variety from a gastronomic perspective. In this context, the development of partnerships with travel agencies organising tours in regions where olive oil museums are located is recommended, with a view to ensuring the inclusion of these museums in their itineraries. Furthermore, it is recommended that olive oil museums in Turkey participate in international forums, competitions, and collaborations; in this regard, joint projects should be developed between the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, municipalities, and the private sector.