The Contribution of Monastic Manuscripts of Boeotia, Greece to Religious Literature, Cultural Heritage, and Cultural Tourism: A Qualitative Investigation

Abstract This study examines the role of monastic manuscripts in Boeotia as carriers of religious identity, cultural heritage, and as drivers of cultural tourism. Drawing on qualitative interviews with monastic and ecclesiastical authorities, the research maps the landscape of manuscript preservation and loss in Boeotian monasteries, exploring the narratives and perceptions surrounding these texts. The study highlights the potential of monastic texts to bridge spiritual tradition with contemporary heritage management practices, and it proposes strategies for their preservation, interpretation, and digital accessibility. The conclusions are framed within the context of cultural sustainability, heritage management, and the evolving nature of tourism. This research contributes to cultural entrepreneurship by presenting monastic manuscripts as valuable cultural resources that offer enriched experiences for visitors and pilgrims. At the same time, it provides useful tools for the academic community, local and monastic communities, as well as tourism stakeholders, promoting sustainable cultural development.