Why Is It Called Dark Tourism?

By Robert Palmer

Dark tourism is a term that has been gaining popularity in recent years. It refers to a type of travel that involves visiting places that are associated with death, tragedy, and other dark events. Some examples of dark tourism sites include the Auschwitz concentration camp in Poland, the 9/11 Memorial in New York City, and the Chernobyl Exclusion Zone in Ukraine.

But why is it called “dark” tourism? The term itself might seem a bit ominous, but there are several reasons why it makes sense.

Firstly, “dark” refers to the subject matter of these types of tourist attractions. As mentioned earlier, they often involve significant historical events that are associated with death or tragedy. These sites can be emotionally heavy and can leave visitors feeling overwhelmed or even disturbed.

Additionally, the term “dark” can also be interpreted as a way to describe the atmosphere of these locations. Many dark tourism sites have an eerie or ominous feel to them. For example, walking through the Auschwitz concentration camp can be an unsettling experience due to its history and what occurred there.

Furthermore, many dark tourism sites are located in places where there has been little development or upkeep over time. This can add to the feeling of darkness and isolation surrounding these locations.

It’s important to note that while some people may find the idea of dark tourism insensitive or even offensive, it can also serve as a way for individuals to learn about history and pay their respects to those who have suffered through tragic events.

In conclusion, dark tourism is called such because it involves visiting sites associated with death and tragedy that often have an eerie atmosphere and little development over time. While some may find it controversial or insensitive, others see it as a way to learn about history and pay tribute to those affected by tragic events.