From the spirit of national struggle to personal challenge

Motivations and experiences of participants in Atatürk and İstiklal Trail

Bibliographic Data

ID21729633
AuthorsCeren AYDIN (0000-0001-8325-5743, Kastamonu University, corresponding author), Çağdaş Aydin (0000-0003-3194-4218, Kastamonu University)
Year2025
Pages1-28
Publication date2025-12-18
Peer ReviewedYes
Open AccessNo
TypeARTICLE
VenueLeisure/Loisir (JOURNAL)
Journal identifiersISSN: 1492-7713 • E-ISSN: 2151-2221
PublisherInforma UK Limited (PUBLISHER • GB)
DOI10.1080/14927713.2025.2601520
OpenAlexW4417479067
LanguageEN
References cited31

This qualitative study examines how historical awareness influences motivations and experiences along the 95-km Atatürk and İstiklal Trail in Türkiye. Utilizing a constructivist–interpretivist framework, the research synthesizes data from three years of participant observation and semi-structured interviews (n=16). Analysis reveals that distinct themes, including historical empathy, the embodiment of the National Struggle, and communitas, drive participation. The findings demonstrate that the trail transcends recreational trekking, functioning instead as a site of embodied remembrance that reinforces collective memory and intergenerational historical consciousness. Theoretically, this research reframes long-distance walking as heritage-based tourism anchored in ritualized practice. Practical implications address campground logistics and route design to enhance participant immersion. Ultimately, this study offers transferable insights for policymakers and organizers aiming to sustain inclusive, heritage-rich outdoor events

Ethnography · Perception · Qualitative research · Historical Turkish Studies · Media Discourse and Social Analysis · Turkey's Politics and Society

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