Perception of young-adults on Ottoman heritage and the opportunities for tourism development

Aim: The study makes an in-depth analysis of created images and perceptions of young adults on cultural heritage dating from the Ottoman period. The aim is to identify students’ general attitude on the opportunities to apply the Ottoman heritage for tourism development and include North Macedonia in the Ottoman cultural route. Method: The research investigates the perception of students (age 18-28) on (i) Personal association to Ottoman heritage (OH); (ii) Assessment of OH in North Macedonia; (iii) Specific perception about the OH; and (iv) Establishment of a cultural route of OH in North Macedonia. The analysis is based on an online survey of 172 students during January-February 2021. Statistical evaluation is performed by calculating descriptive statistics and nonparametric tests. Findings: The findings indicate low awareness and interest about OH and not having a clear attitude regarding the actual condition of OH and giving support to the development of a cultural route based on OH in Europe (including North Macedonia). Results And Suggestions: The study informs tourism policymakers about the young adults’ perception and created images on cultural assets belonging to others, and how to manage them in the line of improving tourism development of North Macedonia. Limitation: Several factors may serve as a starting point for future work, like small sample size, a narrow focus of an investigation, and a small set of indicators. Practical Implications (If Applicable): The findings may serve as a valuable starting point in creating tailor-made new strategic approaches that may boost modest cultural tourism development in the country. Originality: The research is a rare attempt to screen and identify the perception of the young population on creating images of OH and its application in tourism development.