Periódico: Journal of Tourism and Heritage Research
Fonte: Journal of Tourism and Heritage Research; Vol 3 No 4 (2020): Journal of Tourism and Heritage Research; 252-265
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This study seeks to analyse the impact of a cultural event, the Trays Festival, in the city of Tomar, located in the centre of Portugal. Within the process of a region’s touristic development there are several domains such as the historical, cultural and natural that must be considered while analysing a specific manifestation of a tradition which has its origins in the cult of the Holy Spirit. According to the growing importance that cultural heritage assumes nowadays, the Trays Festival was inscribed as Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity this year, being a way to preserve the city’s cultural history as wellas an instrument of promotion of the city making it a tourist destination of choice.
This is a goal which preserves the authenticity of the historical and cultural characteristics of the city and its traditions, valuing at the same time its own identity. Perceiving the capacity that this type of events has on attracting economic benefits, it is often the justification used for their accomplishment. In economic terms these events are catalysts for attracting tourists which leads to the increase of needs such as the knowledge of foreign languages and the use of apps and other technological tools.
Thus, this study aims to provide an integrated learning through the interpretation of the manifestations of intangible cultural heritage with a high touristic value namely the Trays Festival. Therefore, it will also provide insight into contemporary social and cultural dynamics in the promotion, enhancement and attraction of tourists boosting the local economy.
Thus, this project, which started in 2019 and is still under development, aims to analyse the impact of the Trays Festival concerning the economic, social and cultural fields, as well as the ability to promote and attract tourists. So far, data has been collected from the local tourist accommodation, the focus of this work.
