MUSEUMS, TOURISM AND INTERPRETATION OF THE HERITAGE

The relationship between the museum and tourism is underpinned by specific dynamics and is inseparable from the development of society. The present-day museum dissociates itself from the museum of the 18th century, as tourism nowadays presents different characteristics from those it had in the past. The increasing importance of cultural tourism and the growing interest in museums on the part of visitors impose various challenges on museums as tourism resources. In order for tourists to visit the museum, it has to be appealing, providing a unique and enriching experience to the visitor. For this purpose, the museum should invest in the interpretation of heritage. The present study aims to point to the principles underlying the interpretation of heritage and emphasise the relevance that this interpretation may have as a means to draw visitors, notably the tourists visiting the museum. The interpretation of the heritage is considered to be an absolute priority in the organization of the museum and in the public display of the heritage to be highlighted. It should be noted that tourists now expect from the museum the necessary changes that will make it more appealing and worthy of another visit. A captivating experience will make them convey to pass to others the message the museum succeeded in communicating to them.