Spatial pattern and correlation of archaeological sites and cultural tourism resources in Shanxi Province, China

Introduction

Chronically, archaeological sites have remained enigmatic and largely inaccessible to the public. A key challenge in integrating archaeological sites with cultural tourism resources (CTRs) amidst the “archaeological fever” is bridging the gap between these sites and the public. This would allow people to experience the significance and warmth of these places, fostering a deeper appreciation for their historical importance¹. Achieving this requires not only the effective utilization of the cultural value of archaeological sites and a full exploration of their tourism potential, but also the integration of these sites with existing CTRs to maximize the value of both². As global attention to cultural heritage preservation and cultural tourism continues to intensify, studying the spatial and temporal distribution characteristics of archaeological sites and CTRs, and exploring their spatial correlations, provides valuable insights into the current status and interrelationships of these resources within the region. This approach not only provides a scientific foundation for regional industry planning, but also helps strike a balance between conservation and development. Furthermore, it enables the transformation of the cultural value of archaeological sites into economic value, while facilitating the integration of regional resources to strengthen the competitiveness of cultural tourism. In recent decades, interdisciplinary integration has gained considerable attention, with the advent of technologies such as GIS fostering the convergence of geography and archaeology^3,4. This has shifted research on archaeological sites and CTRs from isolated studies to spatially oriented explorations, driving interdisciplinary development, and enhancing theoretical and methodological frameworks.

Archaeological sites are locations where material evidence of human activity is buried and preserved⁵. As particular cultural resources, they embody invaluable historical memories, cultural significance, and social identity, offering considerable potential for tourism development⁶. These sites are a central focus in disciplines such as archaeology and history, with related research primarily concentrated in four key areas: a) Site investigation and discovery^7,8; b) The application of scientific tools in archaeology^{9, 10–11}; c) Research on the cultural complexity of archaeological sites^{12, 13–14}; and d) The protection and sustainable development of ancient sites^15,16. These research categories are closely interconnected, collectively advancing the fields of archaeology and cultural heritage. They contribute to a deeper academic understanding of...