Abstract:

Accommodation facilities located in historic castles and palaces are distinguished by their architectural uniqueness and the specific experiential value they offer to guests. Among the most remarkable categories of historic hotels worldwide are those established in former religious buildings, including churches and monasteries. Such facilities are the outcome of processes of secularisation and transformation.

The primary aim of the publication is to identify economic and non-economic factors influencing the development of the Polish post-sacral hotel industry. Accordingly, the article formulates the following research hypothesis: the development of the post-sacral hotel sector in Poland constitutes an expression of hoteliers’ adaptation of the tourism product to the specific purchasing behaviour, expectations and preferences of contemporary customers.

The research methodology applied in the study is based on the analysis of existing secondary data, a critical review of the relevant academic literature, and qualitative research. The qualitative component involved a deliberately selected group of managers and owners of private hotel facilities from various regions of Poland. In addition, customer reviews published on the Booking.com platform were analysed in order to capture users’ perceptions and evaluations of post-sacral hotel facilities.

The results of the research enabled the achievement of the study’s objectives and provided verification of the research hypothesis. The findings indicate that key factors influencing the development of private hotel facilities in Poland include customers’ growing demand for individualisation, exclusivity and intimacy. Moreover, particular emphasis should be placed on the willingness of hotel owners to engage in the practical reuse and preservation of former religious buildings.