Dr. Vladimir Karadzhov

Chief Assistant Professor, PhD (Economic and Social Geography)

Department of Geography, Ecology and Environmental Protection

Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, South-West University “Neofit Rilski” – Blagoevgrad

E-mail: karadzhov@swu.bg ORCID: 0000-0002-7514-5517

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https://doi.org/10.63711/ijdr.net20250102

ABSTRACT

This article explores the phenomenon of dark tourism in Bulgaria, a niche tourism sector that focuses on sites associated with tragedy, death, and the macabre. The author proposes a general classification of dark tourism sites, offering a framework to understand this unique form of tourism. The study further introduces the first exemplar guide to dark tourism in Bulgaria, presenting a comprehensive list of site based on the author’s extensive research. These include locations tied to Bulgaria’s turbulent history, such as abandoned Communist-era structures, post-war labor camps, and sites of cultural mythology. Visualizations of key destinations enhance the analysis, showcasing their significance and potential for tourism development. A detailed literature review situates Bulgaria’s dark tourism potential within global and regional contexts, identifying gaps and opportunities for sustainable growth. This study aims to stimulate further research and establish Bulgaria as a notable destination for dark tourism enthusiasts.

Keywords: Dark tourism, Thanatourism, Disaster, Cultural Heritage, Guidebook