Pilgrimages and Religious Tourism in Mexico: Environmental and Cultural Impact on Heritage Conservation

Abstract

[EN] The article addresses Mexico's cultural and spiritual richness from a perspective that incorporates environmental sustainability and the conservation of historical heritage. It highlights the importance of pilgrimages in the spiritual life of Mexicans, evidencing the diversity of rituals and religious practices unique to the country. However, it also points out the challenges in sustainability and conservation faced by these sacred sites, especially at iconic archaeological sites such as the pyramids, due to the massive influx of visitors and unsustainable tourism practices. The study will use a mixed methodological approach, including in-depth interviews with religious leaders and quantitative analysis of surveys of pilgrims and religious tourists. These surveys will measure the frequency of visits, tourist behavior, attitudes toward environmental and heritage conservation, as well as a willingness to engage in sustainable tourism practices. This study is expected to provide a comprehensive understanding of the challenges and opportunities, as well as practical recommendations for implementing sustainable management policies and practices. The article concludes by highlighting the importance of addressing environmental sustainability and heritage conservation in the context of pilgrimages and sacred sites. It examines how the implementation of sustainable tourism practices and awareness of the fragility of these sites can contribute to protecting their integrity and value for future generations, underlining the need for a holistic approach that integrates spirituality, culture, and the environment to ensure their preservation.