The local residents’ perceptions of natural and cultural resources in the context of ecotourism: Akdağmadeni/Yozgat (Türkiye)

Objective: Natural and cultural landscape components play a role in ecotourism and the development of urban identity. This study aimed to comprehensively determine the effects of the natural and cultural landscape components of Akdağmadeni district in Yozgat province on ecotourism potential and urban identity. Materials and Methods: A survey was administered to 383 participants. Relationships among the variables were examined using correlation and multiple regression analyses, while differences based on demographic variables were evaluated using independent-samples t-tests and ANOVA. Results: According to the factor analysis, three main dimensions have been identified: cultural resource value, landscape resource value, and attitude toward ecotourism. It indicates that natural areas such as Kadıpınarı Nature Park (Mean=4.85) and Göndelen Valley (Mean=4.79) are perceived to have high landscape value, while Muşali Behramşah Castle (Mean=4.81) stands out for its identity value. Additionally, a positive and significant relationship was found between the frequency of participation in nature-based activities and ecotourism attitude (r=0.46; p<0.001). Conclusion: The results showed that ecotourism is not only an activity that supports environmental sustainability; it also offers significant potential in terms of preserving cultural values, strengthening social belonging, and promoting local economic development