The management of faith tourism destinations: Kastamonu example of Hz. Pir Seyh Saban-i Veli

Kastamonu is a city where different types of tourism are alive. In this city, faith tourism has a higher potential than other types of tourism. Hz. Pir Seyh Saban-i Veli and his complex are the most visited faith destination in the city. In order to develop this ready potential in a more functional and sustainable way, a more efficient destination management is needed. The point to be considered at this stage is the necessity of addressing this destination which has a multi-stakeholder structure within a meaningful and systematic structure. The purpose of the study is a detailed examination of the potential of the faith tourism estsblished by Hz. Pir Seyh Saban-i Veli and his complex in Kastamonu and the determination of the problems that have a negative impact on this potential and the evaluation of the focus group interviews and the presentation of the suggestions about the solutions of these problems. As a research method, focus group interview has been preferred. The meeting has included representatives of various public institutions, private sector and non-governmental organizations with different backgrounds. The data obtained at the end of the interview have been analyzed with descriptive analysis technique. As a result of the analysis, recommendations for more effective management for Hz. Pir Seyh Saban-i Veli Faith Tourism Destination have been presented.