Cultural European Routes: Transfer Experiences, Share Solutions (Certess)

Abstract

This paper deals with the building-up of a methodological framework on how to develop and manage Cultural Routes (CRs) by making use of route development best practices and governance instruments targeted to foster sustainable cultural tourism. CRs are intended by the Council of Europe as "historical lines interconnecting one or more regions and organized around topics whose historical, artistic or social interest proves to be European, either because of the geographical layout of the route, or due to its contents and significance". Most ECRs lack comprehensive methodologies and governance instruments to implement effective strategies at regional level. The draft methodology is intended to be tested and detailed under a European project (CERTESS) where partners, while designing their CR Route Plans, will: a) adopt customised Best Practices; b) develop and adopt well-suited governance tools; c) promote local enterprises and products along their routes by use of innovative immaterial services including ITC. CERTESS partners intend to make their activities sustainable by integrating their Plans into a ECR strategy for establishing Europe as a "first cultural tourism destination in the world".