The Analysisof Tourism Cluster Development of Istanbul: A Longitudinal Study in Sultanahmet District (Old Town)

Abstract

The Sultanahmet district in Turkey has a distinct and unique historical characteristic that includes both Byzantine and Ottoman styles in the design of historical shopping centers, architecture in general, and mosques. Competitive Advantage of Turkey (CAT) conducted a comprehensive cluster study in this historical district in 2001 and initiated the cluster development project. Therefore, the main aim of this research is to identify the analysis of tourism cluster development in the Sultanahmet district (old town). For this purpose, a longitudinal study was realized. Along with secondary research, semi-structured questionnaires, semi-structured interviews, and expert opinions were used as the primary data collection method. A questionnaire was given to members of civil societies, governmental organizations, entrepreneurs (e.g., travel agents, hotel owners, shopping centers owners, etc.), local governments, and suppliers located in the Sultanahmet district.