Archaeological Tourism, Marco Valeri, Editör, Emerald Group, Leeds, ss.1-22, 2026
This chapter addresses how archaeological tourism can serve as a means of social inclusion for local communities through Public Archaeological Museums (PAMs). Adopting a conceptual approach through an integrative literature review the study reveals the theoretical relationships between archaeological tourism and social inclusion. PAMs are considered central in this framework, as they can provide accessibility, disseminate archaeological knowledge, and reinforce cultural identity. Drawing on current literature, a novel conceptual framework is proposed that illustrates the progressive steps from archaeological tourism towards social inclusion. The framework identifies four stages: (1) archaeological tourism is embodied in PAMs, leading to public accessibility; (2) public accessibility facilitates the dissemination of archaeological knowledge; (3) archaeological knowledge can strengthen visitors’ sense of cultural identity; and (4) Sense of cultural identity can enhance visitors’ inclusion in the community. This study contributes to the literature by offering a new conceptual framework linking previously disconnected concepts and provides insights into the role of public museums in supporting social sustainability. The proposed framework also suggests avenues for future empirical research to test its applicability across different contexts and populations.