Evaluation of Handicrafts, the Intangible Cultural Heritage Elements of Balıkesir, within the Scope of Rural Tourism

Abstract

The tradition of handicrafts, which is one of the Intangible Cultural Heritage areas, is one of the most important elements t hat reflect the cultures of rural areas. Today, Yagcibedir carpet, felt weaving, zili/sili weaving, Gonen needlework and şayak-aba weaving are made as registered in the inventory in Balikesir. Raw materials and marketing problems of these handicraft products made in rural areas prevent the transfer of them to future generations. While this situation ends the transfer of culture, it causes a decrease in incomes in rural areas and migration to cities. Rural tourism is an important tool in the development of rural areas. Handicrafts, one of the components of rural tourism, which is a leading element of rural life, has a great share in the development of rural tourism. In the qualitative study conducted in Balıkesir countryside, which has a high potential for rural tourism, observation and interview methods were used, and data were collected from handicraft producers and local people living in rural areas. In the study, the importance of handicraft products, the elements of Balıkesir cultural heritage, and the rural tourism potential it creates were revealed. © 2023, Ebru Bagci. All rights reserved.