The effect of television series on Bilecik tourism and its economy

With the popular culture prevalent and dominant in the society, the trend towards mass media has increased. Mass media have become the main cultural focus that has affected human life and changed their ideas and preferences. Especially the lives, places and people seen in television and television series directly affect the preferences of purchasing, likes and destinations. In this study, the effects of the Diriliş Ertugrul series, which features Bilecik images and describes Ottoman history, on the provincial economy and tourism were examined. Tourism activity through a TV series has been associated with cultural economy and cultural tourism. Based on the year 2014, the number of accommodation made by domestic and foreign tourists was examined. In addition, a survey was conducted for 153 people face to face in the areas of Şeyh Edebali and Ertuğrulgazi tomb. According to the results obtained, Bilecik experienced an acceleration in both domestic and foreign tourism activities as of 2015 (with the start of the Diriliş Ertuğrul series). According to the results obtained from the survey, the Diriliş Ertuğrul series had a positive effect on the visits to Bilecik. However, despite the strategic location, the limited possibilities in Bilecik caused the existing interest to remain at a certain degree.