On the development of cultural tourism: Derbent is the oldest city of Russia

In recent years, the highlands of Dagestan have become a popular destination in Russian tourism, and Derbent, one of the oldest cities in the world, has become its unconditional part. At different times, this city was part of the Persian, Arab, Mongol, Timurid, Shirvanshah and Iranian empires. Today tourists can see the traces of each of these eras on the streets of ancient Derbent. The article explores in detail the history of the emergence, formation and development of the most tolerant city, the center of three religions which is becoming a vivid example of the peaceful coexistence of representatives of various ethnic groups and religions in the era of a new world disintegration and confrontation. The authors also analyze the current problems of this tourist cluster, the prospects and dynamics of its development. They conclude that the development of the Derbent tourist center can become a powerful catalyst for stimulating investment activity, overcoming economic depression and socio-economic development for the entire Republic of Dagestan.