@inbook{Vacalopoulou2023,
title = {Mythological itineraries along the Western Silk Road: Finding myths in visits to Eastern Macedonia and Thrace today},
author = {Anna Vacalopoulou and Anna Mastrogianni and Charilaos Michalopoulos and Despoina Tsiafaki and Natasa Michailidou and Ioannis Mourthos and Paraskevi Botini and Gregory Stainhaouer},
editor = {Kostopoulou, S., Herrera-Franco, G., Wood, J., Al-Kodmany, K.},
url = {https://link.springer.com/chapter/10.1007/978-3-031-31027-0_12},
doi = {https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-031-31027-0_12},
isbn = {978-3-031-31026-3},
year = {2023},
date = {2023-09-28},
urldate = {2023-09-28},
pages = {139–153},
publisher = {Springer, Cham},
chapter = {12},
series = {Advances in Science, Technology & Innovation},
abstract = {This paper presents work within the framework of the R&D project “Mythological Routes in Eastern Macedonia and Thrace”, which showcases the cultural wealth of the region of Eastern Macedonia and Thrace as the basis for the development of the tourism industry. The starting point of the project is the systematic recording, mapping, and promotion of ancient myths that are, in some way, related to this region. The area is of key commercial value, as it forms the north-eastern part of Greece, bordering two countries: Bulgaria and Turkey. In addition, it has always been an important part of the Western Silk Road map, with major centres such as Soufli, and Alexandroupolis. Apart from its geopolitical and economic significance, the area has substantial historical and cultural value, as it has been inhabited continuously since the Prehistoric era. It also boasts a variety of diverse landscapes and ecosystems as well as a rare long-lasting mosaic of different cultures. This project marks the first dedicated collection of myths and mythological references concentrating exclusively on this geographical region. At another level, the project allows the creation of personalized itineraries in the area for the support of the full tourist experience through a website and a mobile application (https://mythotopia.eu/). Starting from the promotion of the mythological identity of the region, its past and present are connected to enhance its tourist and cultural elements. Visitors of the region will enjoy the possibility of designing their own itineraries based on a variety of personal criteria, be them mythological, archaeological, cultural, natural, gastronomic, recreational, etc. In addition, the project has developed a specially designed educational application for the pedagogical utilization of the research outcomes in secondary and higher education.},
keywords = {},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {inbook}
}
