Promoting Collaborations Among Archaeological Parks: A Network Analysis Perspective

In the business world, collaborative networks are well-established and extensively studied. However, the theoretical understanding of inter-institutional collaborations within cultural heritage institutions remains underdeveloped. To address this gap, we apply network analysis techniques to examine the potential of collaborations among archaeological parks in Sicily (Italy), which form part of a formal cultural system. Through a survey measuring collaboration willingness across these archaeological sites, we assess whether they are inclined, neutral, or reluctant to engage in future collaborations with the other parks of the system. Our findings reveal a network of potential collaborations and underline the mediator roles assumed by some parks in facilitating the formation of other partnerships. Our research makes two key contributions. First, it advances our understanding of how network structures influence collaborative opportunities, providing insights for managing heritage destinations. Second, it bridges network theory with cultural heritage contexts, offering a methodological framework for analysing collaborations among cultural heritage sites.