Abstract
Archaeological sites represent a fundamental component of cultural heritage and embody the historical identity of societies across different periods. In recent decades, these sites have been increasingly exposed to a range of environmental, economic, social, and managerial challenges, particularly in regions characterized by rapid urban expansion and limited planning frameworks, such as Iraq. This study examines the concept of archaeological site management within the framework of sustainable tourism, emphasizing the necessity of balancing heritage preservation with socio-economic development. The research adopts an analytical–descriptive approach to explore the principles of sustainable tourism and their role in mitigating negative impacts on archaeological sites, including environmental degradation, overtourism, insufficient funding, and weak community awareness. Particular attention is given to the integration of cultural, religious, and archaeological values as a strategy for enhancing site sustainability. The study further highlights the importance of community participation, technological applications, and institutional cooperation in developing effective and long-term management plans. The Nabi Yunus Mosque and Tell Nabi Yunus in Mosul are presented as a case study to illustrate how sustainable tourism practices can contribute to protecting archaeological heritage while simultaneously supporting local communities and fostering cultural continuity. The findings underscore that sustainable tourism, when properly managed, can serve as a viable tool for safeguarding archaeological sites and ensuring their transmission to future generations.
