An evaluation of the tombs in Düzce Province within the scope of faith tourism

The aim of this study is to identify the potential of the tombs in Düzce Province within the scope of faith tourism and to determine what measures need to be taken to make these tombs more attractive for faith-based tourism. Evaluating the tombs located in Düzce in this context and providing recommendations are expected to contribute to the tourism development of the province. Düzce hosts numerous historical structures, mosques, graves, and gravestones under the umbrella of faith tourism. In this regard, the study is limited to the tombs located in the city center and districts of Düzce. In the study, a theoretical framework has been constructed on tourism, faith, and faith tourism, and definitions of related concepts have been included. One section of the study is devoted to the general characteristics of Düzce, and the tombs are listed according to their locations. Observation, interview, and document analysis techniques were employed, and the data obtained were analyzed through descriptive analysis. According to the findings, most of the tombs are on the verge of being forgotten. While the local people have a positive attitude toward faith tourism and place value on the tombs, they lack sufficient knowledge about their historical, personal, and spiritual significance. It was also determined that security measures have been increased due to superstitions, that there is a need for environmental and structural improvements, that transportation issues need to be resolved, and that there are significant deficiencies in promotional efforts. In the final part of the study, strategic suggestions are presented to develop the potential of the tombs in Düzce within the context of faith tourism. Additionally, recommendations are made regarding what is lacking in order to increase tourism efficiency in Düzce. Key words: Tomb, Faith Tourism, Tombs of Düzce Province