Exploring cultural heritage management research in tourism: Insights through the lens of destination management and nomological networks

Abstract

This paper addresses research gap in linking heritage conservation with destination management by conducting a systematic bibliometric and scientometric review of cultural heritage tourism research published between 2015 and 2024. The review focus on how theoretical frameworks such as the Theory of Planned Behavior, SERVQUAL, authenticity, governance, and sustainability are used in this area, and where empirical evidence remains limited, particularly in cross-cultural and longitudinal validation. Using the Scopus database, 96 publications were analysed to map research trends, identify clusters and develop nomological network of constructs influencing destination management. The findings have indicated that while research in this area has increased there remain issues of fragmented integration, poor attention to practitioners and the lack of long term monitoring. The paper makes theoretical contributions by highlighting how destination image, authenticity, authenticity, visitor satisfaction, and sustainability interact with stakeholder engagement and policy frameworks play a role in destination management. A nomological model is also proposed based on marketing, sustainability, visitor experience, community involvement, and technology and their linkage with destination image, attraction, success and satisfaction are discussed. The study also offers a theoretical and makes recommendations for inclusive governance and sustainable cultural heritage destination management. It also highlights the need for future research to integrate cross disciplinary perspectives, use longitudinal study designs and compare cultural contexts. Key themes emphasise the necessity of including people in decision-making processes, implementing new technologies, and fostering cooperation across different fields of study to preserve the heritage and appreciate it as an asset as well as a resource.