The Cultural Heritage of the Archaeological Park of Dion, Pieria, Greece

Archaeological parks worldwide serve as sources of information about human history. They hold both tangible and intangible value, contributing significantly to a national identity and cultural consciousness of the regions they represent. The institutions involved in this field, like cultural tourism, will be discussed in this chapter, along with the ways in which they contribute to the protection of cultural heritage. It also examines the relationship between cultural tourism and cultural heritage, highlighting the importance of preserving and promoting local culture. A case study was conducted on the archaeological park of Dion in Pieria, Greece, using a convenience sample of 200 participants. Data were collected through a structured questionnaire consisting of 38 closed-ended questions. The research followed a positivist epistemological framework, emphasizing objective reality and quantitative analysis. The findings reveal a generally positive perception of digital tools and social media in promoting cultural tourism. Most participants consider digital applications important for tourism and believe that social media significantly contributes to the visibility of cultural heritage. Management, promotion, and enhancement of these sites should be a priority, especially for the local inhabitants. These ancient sites are an integral part of their history. Technology also plays a crucial role in the promotion and enhancement of monuments. Technology plays a crucial role in this process, offering numerous opportunities for communities to present and preserve their heritage. The paper also discusses the implications of new technologies in the promotion and development of archaeological parks, emphasizing their potential to support sustainable cultural tourism.