Council of Europe Cultural Routes

A Council of Europe Cultural Route is "a route which crosses one or more countries or regions, and which is organized around themes of European historical, artistic or social interest, both in terms of the route's geographical itinerary and in terms of its content and significance".

The 48 European Cultural Routes currently recognized by the Council of Europe are an invitation to travel and discover Europe's rich and varied heritage. They bring people and places together in networks of shared history and heritage, to give concrete expression to the values of the Council of Europe (human rights, cultural diversity, intercultural dialogue and mutual exchange). They offer a wide range of educational and recreational activities for all European citizens, and represent a key resource for responsible tourism and sustainable development. There are many themes in the itineraries: from architecture and landscape to religious itineraries, from gastronomy and intangible heritage to major figures in European art, music and literature.

Since their creation, the "Itinéraires Liberté Pyrénées Europe" have been working towards certification by the "Cultural Routes of the Council of Europe".

This certification is a guarantee of excellence. Networks are required to implement innovative activities and projects in five main priority areas:
- Cooperation in research and development
- Improving knowledge and disseminating European memory, history and heritage
- Cultural and educational exchange for young Europeans
- Contemporary cultural and artistic practice
- Cultural tourism and sustainable cultural development

Through this program, the Council of Europe offers a model for the transnational management of culture and tourism, and enables the development of synergies between national, regional and local authorities and a wide range of associations and socio-economic players.

European Institute of Cultural Routes
Abbazia di Neumünster, Bâtiment Robert Bruch
28, rue Münster, L-2160 Luxembourg (Granducato di Luxembourg)
Tel: +352 24 12 50 -culturalroutes@coe.int
www.coe.int/en/web/cultural-routes-