This study aims to examine faith tourism, one of the oldest forms of travel in human history, from conceptual, historical, and functional perspectives. Faith tourism encompasses the journeys undertaken by individuals to sites they consider sacred, either to fulfill religious obligations, attain spiritual satisfaction, or satisfy cultural curiosity.

The research explores the historical origins, fundamental characteristics, and relationships between faith tourism and other types of tourism in detail. It also evaluates the current structure and development potential of this form of tourism. Special attention is given to the global impact of prominent pilgrimage centers such as Mecca, Jerusalem, the Vatican, Santiago de Compostela, and Varanasi.

Within the context of Turkey, the study highlights the touristic value of significant pilgrimage sites such as the Tomb of Rumi (Mevlana), the House of the Virgin Mary, and Balıklıgöl. These locations are analyzed in terms of their economic, social, and cultural contributions to regional development.

The final section addresses the impact of faith tourism on tourism revenues, its employment-generating potential, and its supportive role in rural development.

In conclusion, the study finds that faith tourism is not merely an activity driven by religious motivation; rather, it is a multidimensional form of tourism that contributes to sustainable development and promotes intercultural interaction.