An investigation of cultural objects in conflict zones through the lens of TripAdvisor reviews: A case of South Caucasus

Abstract

This study is an investigation of how cultural sites and objects in the former conflict zones of South Caucasus are constructed in user-generated narratives in TripAdvisor reviews and images. An analysis of these reviews and images was found to demonstrate the embodied orientation of reviewers’ narrations, wherein the disputed nature of the cultural sites is mainly voiced in the form of dissatisfaction with the socio-economical situation and services. This study suggests that the forgotten nature of frozen conflicts engendered an erosion of and disconnect from cultural heritage, ties and significance for those who fled the contested areas.