Evaluation of the economic, social and physical effects of the title of slow city on regional tourism in Göynük and Mudurnu districts

This research focuses on the Cittaslow movement, which originated in Italy in 1999 and embraces sustainable living principles inspired by the philosophy of slow living. The study aims to evaluate the economic, social, and physical impacts of the Cittaslow title on tourism in the districts of Göynük and Mudurnu, located in Bolu Province, Turkey. To achieve this objective, in-depth interviews were conducted with local stakeholders of Göynük and Mudurnu, including district governorate staff, municipal employees, representatives of non-governmental organizations, cooperatives, local product manufacturers, and trade representatives. Data for the study were collected through a combination of literature review and in-depth interviews with these stakeholders and were analyzed using the content analysis method. The study has the importance of being the first research comparing the slow cities of Göynük and Mudurnu. The findings reveal that the Cittaslow title provides a flexible development model that can be adapted to regional needs in different areas. Both districts have tailored the title to reflect their unique economic, cultural, social, and physical characteristics. Furthermore, it has been determined that the Cittaslow title serves not only as an economic tool for the districts but also as a structure that supports social cohesion and cultural sustainability.