Exploring Public Perceptions of Archaeological Heritage in Upper Egypt

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 Faculty of Tourism and Hotels, Minia University, Egypt

2 Anthropology Department, British Colombia University, Vancouver, Canada

Abstract

Archaeological heritage is a very important part of the Egyptians tangible cultural heritage. Although the ancient monuments and archaeological sites are scattered all over Egypt, especially in Upper Egypt, there is no studies to explore how the Egyptians comprehend, interact, perceive, and relate to their archaeological heritage. Archaeologists throughout the world acknowledge their responsibility to engage the public in both appreciating and preserving the archaeological record. This engagement is crucial to the future of archaeology, particularly in today’s economic environment where both research and heritage preservation values are constantly challenged in public and political spheres. This study aims to explore the perception of the citizens in Upper Egypt towards their archaeological heritage and whether they are interest or disinterest in preserving this heritage. Quantitative and analytical methodology is used to achieve the aim of this paper through a survey distributed in six Upper Egypt Governorates. The survey investigated the level of public interest and participation in archaeology as well as the perceived role of antiquities and monuments in the minds and beliefs of Egyptians in the contemporary society. Findings of this study revealed an overall high level of Egyptian public engagement with archaeological heritage and general support for archaeological heritage values and conservation.

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