A qualitative study on perceptions towards religious tourist attractions in Malta with specific reference to Roman Catholic churches

Abstract

Several statistics, locally, have been emphasizing the impact of Malta as a touristic site. An important characteristic of Malta is also its religious roots. This study sheds light on this link by focusing on the perceptions towards religious tourist attractions in Malta, particularly looking at St Paul’s Grotto, the Sanctuary of St Publius and the Wignacourt Museum as sites of study. The research question elaborates on the categorization of religious tourist attractions, identifying who the visitors are by looking at different types of visitors in religious tourist attractions to understand perceptions. The study was carried out using a qualitative approach involving interviews with a curator of these sites and travel guides. The results were consolidated using a triangulation approach against questionnaires and online travel reviews to visitors of these sites. The results consist of various ideas in regards of how these sites may be perceived.