43 applications received for the 2020 ECTN Awards !
from 16 countries, including 4 non-EU countries
ECTN Awards Ceremony 2019, Granada, Spain
in partnership with Europa Nostra, European Travel Commission & NECSTouR,
supported by Iter Vitis Cultural Route of the Council of Europe
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ECTN jointly launches the Europe Day Manifesto:

“Cultural Heritage:
a powerful catalyst for the future of Europe”

with European Heritage Alliance 3.3 members

                                                                                                  9 May 2020

Today, ECTN is proud to be amongst the first signatories of the Europe Day Manifesto “Cultural Heritage: a powerful catalyst for the future of Europe”. This is released on 9 May 2020, on the occasion of Europe Day which this year marks the 70th anniversary of the Schuman Declaration and the launch of the process of European integration, by the European Heritage Alliance, of which ECTN is a founding member. The Europe Day Manifesto makes several explicit references to tourism and particularty to the revival of cultural tourism.

The Europe Day Manifesto devotes one of seven ways in which cultural heritage can act as a catalyst for positive change to tourism under 'Experiencing Europe':

"6) EXPERIENCING EUROPE
Faced with the catastrophic impact of the pandemic on the tourism industry due to travel and mobility limitations, which puts 13 million European jobs at risk, we fully support the appeal for a major “EU tourism rescue plan”. This plan should include special measures for the revival of cultural tourism, one of the largest and fastest growing tourism segments worldwide which accounts for 40% of all European tourism. Tourism needs cultural heritage and cultural heritage needs tourism. But we recover from this crisis by using it as an opportunity to promote more innovative and sustainable forms of tourism. In doing so, we will deliver lasting benefits for public and private owners of heritage sites and the communities that surround them, generating higher quality experiences and greater enjoyment for visitors".

The ECTN Secretariat has submitted the following statement as a signatory:

"Cultural Tourism will be the main driver for the recovery of the European tourism sector, especially for international visitors from outside Europe that are always attracted to experience European cultural heritage assets and sites. A specific and targeted campaign and support is therefore needed by EU institutions and EU member states, towards investments in Sustainable Cultutal Tourism development and promotion. This should include intangible heritage, industrial herirage, interpretation facilities, innovation/digitisation, European cultural routes, as well as the contribution of Cultural and Creative Industries to Cultural and Creative Tourism. With sustainable mobility and accessibility towards 'Smart Destinations' in Europe, including culture and creativity".

The Europe Day Manifesto can be found and signed on the Europa Nostra website:

https://www.europanostra.org/europe-day-manifesto-cultural-heritage-a-powerful-catalyst-for-the-future-of-europe-just-released/
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ECTN strongly supports and adopts the call by
          ETC and WTTC on EU Member States
                 to commit to rapid recovery for
                    the European Tourism Sector



​ECTN strongly and actively supports the important call by the European travel Commission (ETC) and the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC), launched on 27 April 2020, which states that:​

"The European Union is the largest region in the world in terms of international tourism receipts. In 2019, tourism-related spending in the EU reached 427 billion Euros, representing 6.2% of the EU’s total exports. Last year, the Travel & Tourism sector was responsible for more than 27 million jobs, showing how intrinsic and important the sector is to the European economy.
As a result of the Covid-19 pandemic, the European Travel & Tourism sector is going through an unprecedented crisis. Increased support from governments now is fundamental and must be a priority to save millions of livelihoods that depend on our sector. An estimated 13 million jobs in Travel & Tourism are at risk in Europe.
We have recently seen some excellent individual initiatives and leadership from countries and governments around the world, and we believe that full and swift recovery will only be achieved through common efforts and strong public-private collaboration. Therefore, we call on EU Member States to lead and drive a united and coordinated recovery response to the COVID-19 crisis.
Together, the European Travel Commission (ETC) and the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) propose EU Member States to jointly commit to four key principles to achieve a faster recovery:
  1. A common response and well-coordinated approach across the EU – to re-establish effective operations, remove travel barriers, reopen borders, and reinstall Schengen, and to re-build confidence in Travel & Tourism. Following EU guidelines and public-private cooperation will be crucial in this regard.
  2. Recovery plan – Enhance the seamless traveller journey experience, combining the latest technology and protocols to increase health standards evenly across all EU Member States. Consider the “new normal” for the sector with components of health, security, hygiene and sustainability with a traveller centric approach.
  3. Industry toolbox to resume travel in Europe – Work with the private sector and health experts to define global standards for the new normal, grounded in science and developed together with the industry. Protocols should be developed in a way that can be adopted by businesses of every size across all travel industries and can be implemented in Europe and worldwide.
  4. Supportive measures – Continue to aid and assist to the Travel & Tourism sector during the recovery phase, throughout the entire travel ecosystem. Governments should not spare financial support for workers, businesses and for promotion in order to achieve a prompt recovery.
The EU Member States have the power to influence and drive forward a coordinated recovery effort needed to preserve the sector. Once the COVID-19 pandemic has been put under control, governments should focus on attracting visitors back and offering reassurance to travellers that the time is right once more to explore and visit. The Travel & Tourism sector will be key to powering the recovery of the EU economy, generating new jobs and fresh income much needed in the prospected economic downturn".


ECTN would like to add that the required recovery of the European Tourism Sector will be stronly based on the very rich and unique cultural and heritage assets of European countries, which always will be of great interests to visitors from all over the World. Therefore, EU institutions and Member States should give priority to cultural tourism development and promotion initiatives in all recovery strategies, plans and funds, towards responsible and sustainable cultural tourism in Europe as a main contributor to socio-economic development, cohesion and employment.
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Call for offers                                                 4 May 2020

regarding external expertise for assistance to partners during development of Action Plans in the Cult-CreaTE Interreg Europe project

The Call document can be requested by email:  cult-create@culturaltourism-net.eu

Closing date for receipt of offers: 12 May 202 24:00 CEST (CLOSED)
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​
European tourism sector demands urgent supportive measures to reduce devastating impact of COVID-19

                                                                                                                             17 March 2020
​​
The European Tourism Manifesto alliance, the voice of the European travel and tourism sector, has issued the following statement on the implementation of urgent measures to limit the COVID-19 outbreak’s impact on the sector.

The effects of the outbreak are already being felt throughout the global economy. Economic activity has dropped, and all evidence points towards a significant downturn in areas affected by the virus. The tourism and travel sector is particularly hit. Millions of jobs are currently at stake, while many small and medium enterprises (SMEs) risk closing their business. Support for tourism must be a priority in the crisis response, recovery plans and actions of affected economies.
The European Tourism Manifesto alliance welcomes the immediate response presented by the European Commission on 13th March to mitigate the socio-economic impact of the COVID-19 outbreak. We call for immediate implementation of these measures, which should be reinforced by additional instruments focused on the tourism sector. Action is required now to strengthen the resilience of the sector in the long run and prepare the ground for a swift recovery from this unprecedented crisis.
The European Tourism Manifesto alliance calls upon the European Commission and national governments to swiftly implement the following urgent measures:
  • Temporary state aid for the tourism and travel sector from national governments
  • Fast and easy access to short- and medium-term loans to overcome liquidity shortages, including funds made available by the EU through the Corona Response Investment Initiative
  • Fiscal relief (both at source market and destination level), starting with SMEs and extending to economic operators of all sizes
  • Protection of workers from unemployment and loss of income (short-time work schemes, upskilling and reskilling programmes) and support for self-employed tourism stakeholders
  • Fast launch of the European Unemployment Reinsurance Scheme
  • Deferment of fiscal and social contributions
  • Immediate passing of temporary airport slots waiver
  • Support action for the wider field of culture (arts and heritage)
  • Better coordination between national authorities in terms of alignment of travel advice to affected regions and requirements on travellers returning from those areas.
In order to guarantee a full-speed recovery in the aftermath of the crisis, we call for the implementation of the additional following measures:
  • Simplification of visa rules for long-haul markets
  • Reducing or waiving travellers’ taxes (passenger duties, city taxes, etc.)
  • Supporting destinations, by increasing their budgets for promotion, marketing and product development purposes as soon as they are ready to welcome visitors again.

Download the statement
ECTN Conference 2020 Call for presenters launched

The conference is organised in close cooperation with City of Krk and University of Rijeka, ECTN members.

The submitted Abstracts should address at least one of the following topics linked to cultural and heritage tourism:
​
  1. Industrial Heritage Tourism
  2. Maritime, Coastal and Aquatic Heritage, supported by ‘The Phoenicians Route’ cultural route of the Council of Europe
  3. Innovation and Digitalisation in Sustainable Cultural Tourism, towards Smart Destinations
  4. Transnational Thematic Tourism Products, including Cultural Routes
  5. Wine Tourism, supported by the ‘Iter Vitis’ cultural route of the Council of Europe
  6. Food and Gastronomy Tourism, supported by FOODBIZ Erasmus+ project led by University of Macerata.
 
​Submission deadline: 1st June 2020 (online) - Extended to 1 July (NEW)
EUROPEAN TOURISM SECTOR CALLS FOR SOLIDARITY AND SUPPORT TO CHINA

The European Tourism Manifesto alliance, the voice of the European travel and tourism sector, has issued the following statement on the COVID-19 outbreak’s impact on EU-China tourism cooperation.

Brussels, 24 February 2020:

We offer our solidarity and support to China and the Chinese people during an exceptionally challenging time, and commit to work with our partners in Europe and Asia to that end.

From higher education to retail, hospitality to transportation, the social and economic impact of COVID-19 crisis on travel and tourism illustrates the importance of Europe’s relationship with China.

The strong mutual interest in both cultural and commercial exchange between China and Europe was shown by the EU-China Year of Tourism in 2018. We must draw on its legacy in this difficult time to ensure that Chinese visitors are welcome and respected throughout Europe. From expedited visa facilitation to attractive offers, public and private sectors must collaborate to enable and support a strong recovery.

Public safety is the prime concern of governments, and we recognise the guidelines issued by the World Health Organisation, with the strong support of the UNWTO. Travel restrictions that exceed such recommendations may cause unnecessary alarm, disruption and adverse economic impact across all sectors.

In response to the COVID-19 crisis, the European Tourism Manifesto alliance
  • offers a message of solidarity and support to China and the Chinese people
  • reaffirms the importance of respect and welcome among the European travel and tourism community
  • recognises the scope of the impact of the crisis across all sectors
  • urges an evidence-based approach to travel restrictions, while taking the necessary and appropriate measures to ensure the protection of public health
  • encourages a cross-sectoral strategic plan for recovery.

The European Tourism Manifesto alliance gathers more than 50 European public and private organisations, covering the whole tourism value chain and beyond. The alliance calls on the European Union for action on key policy priorities for the tourism sector.
ECTN Awards 2020 launched!

​Categories:

  1. Industrial Heritage Tourism
  2. Maritime, Coastal and Aquatic Heritage, supported by ‘The Phoenicians Route’ cultural route of the Council of Europe
  3. Innovation and Digitalisation in Sustainable Cultural Tourism, towards Smart Destinations
  4. Transnational Thematic Tourism Products, including European Cultural Routes
  5. Wine Tourism, supported by the ‘Iter Vitis’ cultural route of the Council of Europe.

Download the call for entries and application form here
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​The European Association of Via Francigena ways joins ECTN

The Via Francigena is a "Cultural Route of the Council of Europe" according to the definition of the Enlarged Partial Agreement (EPA) on Cultural Routes approved by the Committee of Ministers of the Council of Europe on 8 December 2010.  Via Facigena was amongst the winners of the ECTN Awards 'Destination of Sustainable Cultural Tourism 2019', in the category 'Transnational Thematic Tourism Products'.

​The European Association of Via Francigena ways (EAVF) is a voluntary association of Regions and Local Authorities of Italy, Switzerland, France, England, which currently accounts 178 members. It was established on 7 April 2001 in Fidenza (Emilia-Romagna, Italy) to promote the Via Francigena - 1800 kilometres from Canterbury to Rome, through 13 European Regions (Kent; Hauts-de-France; Grand Est; Bourgogne-Franche-Comté; Vaud; Valais; Valle d'Aosta; Piedmont; Lombardy; Emilia-Romagna; Liguria; Tuscany; Lazio), in addition to 4 Regions of southern Italy (Campania, Molise, Basilicata, Apulia) and the Via Francigena of the South in 4 countries (United Kingdom; France; Switzerland; Italy). It carries out activities to enhance and promote the route at all institutional levels: local, regional, national and european. In 2007 the Council of Europe declares EAVF carrier network ("réseau porteur") of the Via Francigena, assigning it the role of official reference point for safeguarding, protecting, promoting and developing the Via Francigena in Europe.
​
https://www.viefrancigene.org/en/
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New Honorary Member of ECTN: Mr Michael Cramer, former MEP and Chair of the TRAN Commitee

The ECTN General Assembly has approved the nomination by the Board regarding a new Honorary Member, Mr Michael Cramer, former Member of the European Parliament (Greens, Germany, 2004-2019) and ex-Chair of the Transport and Tourism Committee (TRAN, 2014-2017). Mr Cramer is the founder of the 'Iron Curtain Trail' - EuroVelo13 cycling route, which has been certified as "Cultural Route of the Council of Europe" in 2019. He has been a keynote speaker at ECTN events, namely in the frame of the Cult-RInG Interreg Europe project, in Riga (November 2017) and in Brussels (October 2018). As a Chair of the TRAN Committee of the European Parliament he has advanced the cause of sustainable cultural tourism and sustainable mobility for tourism. The official award ceremony will take place at the Cult-RInG project high-level event and final conference to be held at end May 2020 in Thessaloniki, Greece.
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Winners of the ​ECTN Awards 2019
 
by Category




​
Intangible Heritage
 
Joint 1st Prize:
​Selasetur Íslands as a Community-Based Tourism Initiative in Northwest Iceland
By Selasetur Íslands The Icelandic Seal Center, Iceland

Joint 1st Prize:
Batana Eco-museum: developing cultural tourism and sustainable communities by safeguarding Intangible Cultural Heritage
By Association House of Batana, Croatia

2nd Prize:
Phyti Embroideries on a weaving loom
By Phyti Community Council, Cyprus
 
3rd Prize:
Lagoon of Venice as a new sustainable tourist destination
By “Operatori Turismo Sostenibile della Laguna di Venezia” – OTS Association (Sustainable Tourism Companies), Italy
 


Heritage Interpretation
 
1st Prize:
Cascais Museum Quarter: cultural dimension of a travel destination
By Fundação D. Luis I, Centro Cultural de Cascais, Portugal
 
2nd Prize:
Scientific heritage as a driving force for Tourism in Girona
By Catalan Foundation for Research and Innovation, Barcelona, Spain
 
 
 
Innovation and Digitisation
 
1st Prize:
​Hackathon “Cultural adventure at your fingertips” in Slovenia
By Slovenian Tourist Board, Slovenia
 
2nd Prize:
​Heritage of Venice’s Sailing Tradition: New Digital Routes for Sustainable Tourism
By Civiltà dell'Acqua (Water Civilization) International Centre, Venice, Italy
 
3rd Prize: 
Digital presentation of the Cultral Heritage of isled of Krk
By Island of Krk Tourist Board, Croatia
​

​
Transnational Thematic Tourism Products including Cultural Routes
 
1st Prize: 
‘Iron Curtain Trail’ – Euro Velo 13 as official Cultural Route of the Council of Europe
By Investment and Development Agency of Latvia, Latvia
 
2ndPrize:
‘Via Francigena’ – the cultural route of slow tourism and sustainable development
By European Association of Francigena Ways - carrier network of the Council of Europe, Italy

3rd Prize:
‘Argonauts’ return’: a transnational Cultural Tourism Route based on Intangible Heritage of Mythology, Poetry, Literature, Performing and Visual Arts
By Argonautica Network, Greece

 
 
Culinary Heritage, Food and Gastronomy Tourism
 
1st Prize:
AgriturAso and “Marche in valigia”: towards a relational tourism destination
By Agritur Aso association, Italy

2nd Prize:
Zaube Wild Food Festival
By Amata Municipality, Latvia
 
3rd Prize:
Universe Alcantara: a network of local entrepreneurs engaged in creating solutions for sustainable tourism in Sicily
By Mediterranean Pearls, Italy


 
Wine Tourism
  
1st Prize:
Vines Wines Hikes in Loire Valley
By InterLoire: interprofession des vins du Val de Loire, France
 
2nd Prize:
Motovun - the cultural, historical and gastro-oenological center of inland Istria
By Tourist board of the Motovun Municipality, Croatia
  
​3rd Prize:
Armagnac Confidentiel, secret stones and gourmet vines in Pays d'Armagnac
By Pôle d'Equilibre Territorial et Rural du Pays d'Armagnac, France


 
Contributions by Cultural and Creative Industries (CCIs) to Cultural and Creative Tourism
 
1st Prize:
Barcelos Creative City – Contributions of the Crafts and Folk Arts as paths towards a more sustainable tourism
By Barcelos Municipality, Portugal

2nd Prize:
Legends of Āraiši
By Community of Āraiši, Amata Municipality, Latvia
 
3rd Prize:
Erudite Music Season - Revitalization of the National Palaces through Music in Sintra
By Parques de Sintra – Monte da Lua, Portugal
 

  
Actions during the European Year of Cultural Heritage 2018 - Initiative on
 ‘Tourism & heritage
 
1st Prize:
​‘We Are What We Eat’ – Celebration of Sintra’s Culinary Heritage
By Parques de Sintra – Monte da Lua, Portugal
​
2nd Prize: 
‘The voices of the choir’ - Tourism & heritage trough the music in Elx/Elche
By Visitelche with Turisme Comunitat Valenciana, Spain
 

 
Special Prize of the Jury:
​
Aquae Calidae - the favourite baths of emperors, tsars and sultans, goes digital in Burgas
By Regional historical museum of Burgas, Bulgaria
 

​
The winners were announced at the Award ceremony that took place on 24 October in Granada, Spain

The winners and runners-up are selected by the Jury (composed by representatives of ECTN, Europa Nostra, European Travel Commission and NECSTouR), out of 55 applications received from 19 countries (4 non-EU).

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ECTN celebrates 10 years of activities 2009 - 2019 !


ECTN  was established as AISLB in Brussels on 20 May 2009. This year ECTN celebrates 10 years of continuous activities and growth, from the 6 founding members in 2009 to 29 members in 2019 and from 5 countries to 19 countries!

During its 10 years of existence, ECTN has participated in 5 EU co-funded projects (4 currently active, established by the ECTN Secretariat), organised 9 international conferences and awarded annual prizes for 'Destination of Sustainable Cultural Tourism' since 2014.

ECTN is a member of the Stakeholder Committee of the 'European Year of Cultural Heritage 2018' (EYCH2018), selected by the European Commission DG EAC in 2017. ECTN was an official supporter of the UN 'International Year of Sustainable Tourism for Development 2017', facilitated by UNWTO. ECTN is a signatory of the 'European Manifesto for Growth & Jobs' led by the European Travel Commission and a founding member of the 'European Heritage Alliance 3.3', led by Europa Nostra.
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ECTN keynote address at the International Conference on Archaeology and Tourism, entitled: 
'The Charter for Sustainable Cultural Tourism & the European Year of Cultural Heritage legacy'
ECTN Awards 'Destination of Sustainable Cultural Tourism' 2014 - 2019 ! 
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Veneto Region joins ECTN

Veneto Region, Italy, has joined ECTN as a member, following successful cooperation in ECTN projects CHARTS INTERREG IVC (2012-2014), CHRISTA Interreg Europe (2016-2020) and Cult-CreaTE Interreg Europe (2018-2022).
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ECTN participated in the 3rd UNWTO/UNESCO World Conference on Tourism and Culture​​​The theme ‘for the Benefit of All’ had two priorities:
1) creating more inclusive partnerships between tourism and culture stakeholders that contribute to SDG implementation; and
2) promoting tourism development that encourages cultural interaction and ensures the benefits are shared by all communities involved.
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Androula Vassiliou confirmed as Honorary Member of ECTN

Former European Commissioner for Culture Mrs Androula Vassiliou, currently Vice-President of Europa Nostra was confirmed as Honorary Member of ECTN at the closing ceremony of the ECTN annual Conference, in Pafos, Cyprus, on 26 October 2018. Mrs Vassiliou had been proposed as ECTN Honorary Member during her term as EU Commissioner for Education, Culture, Youth and Sport, as a recognition of her contribution to cultural tourism in initiatives such the European Heritage Label and her video message at the 2013 ECTN Conference.
Winners of the ECTN Awards 2018 announced!
In partnership with Europa Nostra and the European Travel Commission, supported by NECSTouR

​
The ECTN 'Destination of Sustainable Cultural Tourism 2018' Awards were announced at a ceremony on 25 October in Pafos, Cyprus. The ECTN Awards for 2018 have been held in cooperation with Europa Nostra (EN) and the European Travel Commission (ETC), supported by NECSToUR, as a contribution to the European Year of Cultural Heritage 2018 (EYCH2018), initiative on 'Tourism and heritage: responsible and sustainable tourism around cultural heritage'. In total 57 candidates from 15 countries had submitted applications, under 7 thematic categories. The selection has been made by a jury comprised by representatives of ECTN, EN, ETC and NECSToUR. 

The winners are as follows, by theme category:


Religious & Pilgrimage

 
1st Prize
The Way of St Francis a new sustainable way to discover Italy,
by Sviluppumbria – Regional Economic Development Agency for Umbria, Italy
 
2nd Prize
South Limburg, a spiritual Awakening
by Tourist Board South Limburg, Netherlands
 
3rd Prize
Camino Lebaniego, the first solar powered “online” pilgrimage route
by Government of Cantabria, Spain
 
  
Cultural Landscapes
​
  
1st Prize
Colonies of Benevolence of Wortel and Merksplas
by Kempens Landschap is a Flemish non-profit  organization that aims to protect valuable landscapes in the province of Antwerp, Belgium
 
2nd Prize
A train for the Casilini Ecomuseum
by Ecomuseo Casilino ad Duas Lauros, Italy
 
3rd Prize
Rota do Românico - An experience founded on History
by VALSOUSA - Associação de Municípios do Vale do Sousa, Portugal
 
 
Industrial & Military
 
1st Prize
Flanders Fields 2014-2018: developing a future-proof, transformative WW1 remembrance tourism
By Visit Flanders, Belgium
 
2nd Prize
Industrial Herritage of Berguedà
by Berguedà Development Agency, Spain
 
 
Historic Villages and Towns
 
1st Prize
The revival of Kalopanayiotis village into a sustainable tourism destination
By Yiannakis Papadouris Foundation, Cyprus
 
2nd Prize
Ostana: return and development
By Comune di Ostana, Italy
 
3rd Prize
Kėdainiai – the unique multicultural XVIIth century town of Dukes Radvilos in the heart of Lithuania
By Kėdainiai District Municipality, Lithuania
 

Cultural Sites
 
1st Prize
Gaudi’s Crypt, the first UNESCO’s World Heritage Site in the World in obtaining the Biosphere Certification of Sustainable Tourism management
by Consorci de Turisme den Baix Llobregat, Spain
 
2nd Prize
Recovery and revaluation of the cultural and natural heritage of the historic garden Parc Samà
by Cambrils Municipal Tourist Board, Spain
  
3rd Prize
Routes in Marpissa, a three-day, experiential, cultural festival in the traditional settlement of Marpissa, Paros island
by Routes in Marpissa, Greece
 
 
Transnational Thematic Tourism Products
 
1st Prize
Sea, Nature, Sicily – Underwater and nautical itinenaries
Sicily, Tuscany, Sardinia, Balearic Islands, Provence, Andalusia
by the Phoenician’s Route – Cultural Route of the Council of Europe
 
2nd Prize
Creation of a Cultural Dipole in a cross border area
Creation of two Museums/ cultural poles, in Serres (Greece) and in Petrich (Bulgaria), cooperation on tourism and culture
by Municipality of Serres, Greece
 
 
Contributions by Cultural and Creative Industries
 
1st Prize
Discover Dingli Cliffs – Innovative cultural and eco-tourism activities in rural Dingli, Malta
by La Pinta Ltd., The Cliffs Interpretation Centre, Malta
 
2nd Prize
Imaginarius Creation Centre – Art and Public Space (ICC)
by Municipality of Santa Maria da Feira, Portugal
 
3rd Prize
Istra Inspirit – reviving cultural and historic heritage of Istria through cultural tourism
by Istria Tourism Development Agency, Croatia
 

Special Prize of the Jury
 
Raudondvaris Manor stables arrangement and adaption for arts incubator activities
by Public institution “Raudondvaris Manor”, Lithuania
re to edit.
ECTN events in Brussels during the European Week of Cities and Regions (EWRC) 2018
9 October 2018, Radisson Blu Royal Hotel, Brussels

ECTN organised two side events during the European Week of Regions and Cities (EWRC) in Brussels, on Tuesday 9 October, in the framework of Interreg Europe projects CHRISTA and Cult-RInG, as follows:

​Cultural Heritage for Responsible, Innovative and Sustainable Tourism Actions in Regional Development - Interreg Europe CHRISTA project results 
Thematic cluster: Territorial development (regional, urban, rural)
This event included the launch of the ECTN "Charter for Sustainable Cultural Tourism" 3rd edition, in relation to European Year of Cultural Heritage 2018 (EYCH2018) initiative on "tourism and heritage", as well as the results of the CHRISTA Interreg Europe project and pliot actions under way. The CHRISTA project aims to protect and preserve European natural and cultural heritage assets and deploy them for the development and promotion of innovative, sustainable and responsible tourism strategies, including interpretation and digitisation.

Cultural Routes as Investment for Growth and Jobs - Interreg Europe Cult-RInG project activities
Thematic cluster: Economic development, employment
This event presented the interim results of the Interreg Europe Cult-RInG project in terms of the value of investment in European Cultural Routes in terms of their contribution to growth and jobs and the development of new cultural routes. The event was in the frame of the European Year of Cultural Heritage 2018 (EYCH2018), initiative on "tourism and heritage".
ECTN participated in the 3rd UNWTO Global Conference on Wine Tourism: 
Wine Tourism as a Tool for Rural Development
ECTN participated in the 2nd UNWTO World Conference on Smart Destinations 2018
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NECSTouR, the Network of European Regions for a Sustainable and Competitive Tourism, supports the ECTN Awards for Destination of Sustainable Cultural Tourism 2018, as a contribution to the European Year of Cultural Heritage 2018, in partnership with Europa Nostra and the European Travel Commission
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ECTN welcomes the European Capital of Smart Tourism initiative!

In line with a preparatory action proposed by the European Parliament, the European Commission is launching a competition to award the title of European Capital of Smart Tourism. This brand new initiative rewards European cities and gives them the opportunity to share their exemplary practices as smart tourism destinations. Deadline for applications is 30 June 2018.

The initiative will showcase accomplishments by tourism destinations across the EU in the following areas:
  • Sustainability
  • Digitalisation
  • Cultural Heritage & Creativity
  • Accessibility​
Two cities showing the most intelligent, innovative and inclusive solutions in all the above mentioned areas will be awarded the title of “European Capital of Smart Tourism 2019”. Additional four cities will receive European Smart Tourism Awards for their outstanding achievements in the individual categories listed above.

ECTN welcomes and supports this excellent initiative, particularly since the areas of Sustainability, Cultural Heritage & Creativity are directly related to ECTN's role in promoting Sustainable Cultural Tourism in Europe, as well as 'Accessibility to Heritage' being a good practice already included in the ECTN Charter for Sustainable Cultural Tourism.
ECTN urges all its eligible members to apply.

www.SmartTourismCapital.eu
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ECTN in new Interreg Europe projects!


ECTN is a partner in a new Interreg Europe project approved by the monitoring committee, one of 54 projects approved out of 234 applications received in the third call for project proposals.




​Cult-CreteTE (Cultural and Creative Industries contribution to Cultural and Creative Tourism in Europe) aims to redeploy Cultural and Creative Industries (CCIs) for the development and promotion of Cultural and Creative Tourism (CCT) strategies, with sustainability, innovations, capitalisation, policy learning, policy implementation and capacity building. Cult-CreteTE is led by Vidzeme Tourism Association in Latvia, with partners Veneto IT, Nicosia CY, Cork IE, Dundee UK, Naoussa EL, Pecs HU, Kujawsko-Pomorskie PL.

ECTN has also supported another winning application, DESTI-SMART (Delivering Efficient Sustainable Tourism with low-carbon transport Innovations: Sustainable Mobility, Accessibility and Responsible Travel), led by Metropolitan Development Agency of Thessaloniki, Greece, with partners Bremerhaven DE, Sardenia IT, Mallorca ES, Funchal PT, Hastings UK, Pafos CY, Lake Balaton HU, Greenways LV and Bournemouth University UK as an advisory partner. DESTI-SMART aims to improve the transport and tourism policies of EU destinations, by integrating strategies for sustainable mobility, accessibility and
responsible travel with efficient & sustainable tourism development, for transition to a low-carbon economy, through efficiency, resilience, multimodality, novel low-carbon transport systems, cycling & walking, with implementation innovations, policy learning and capacity building.

Both of the above topics, CCIs for CCT and SMART Destinations, are included in the ECTN 'Charter for Sustainable Cultural Tourism', which is a contribution of ECTN to the European Year of Cultural Heritage 2018.
ECTN presented the CHRISTA Project Heritage Interpretation aspects for tourism at the Interpret Europe Conference 2018: Heritage and Identity

The heritage interpretation aspects of the CHRISTA Project were presented by ECTN at the Interpret Europe Conference 2018 that took place from 23 to 26 March in Kőszeg (Hungary). This conference was part of the 2018 European Year of Cultural Heritage. Theme of this year's conference was 'Heritage and Identity'. The question of identity is key when it comes to one's feelings towards Europe in all its diversity and one's relationship with single nation states, regions and local communities. The title of ECTN's presentation is:

"Heritage Interpretation for Sustainable Cultural Tourism Policies: Interreg Europe CHRISTA Project"

Tibor Navracsics, EU Commissioner for Education, Culture, Youth and Sport opened the conference in the Knight's Hall of Jurisics Castle in Kőszeg.
TENDER for subcontracting external expertise regarding policies on INNOVATION and DIGITISATION for SUSTAINABLE CULTURAL TOURISM in the scope of Interreg Europe programme project CHRISTA. (CLOSED)

To receive Tender Specification and Proposal Form, potential Applicants should send a request to email: christa@culturaltourism-net.eu

Deadline for submission of offers by email: 9 March2018 24:00 CET.
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01 February 2018
CHRISTA Project Joint Meeting on the Action Plans in Granada, Spain
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A Joint Meeting on the preparation of the CHRISTA Action plans took place in Granada, Spain, with the participation of all CHRISTA project partners and their experts.

​The meeting was opened by Ms Ana Muñoz Arquelladas, deputy of the delegation of employment and sustainable development of Diputacion de Granada and by Mr Michalis Pavlidis, Mayor of Geroskipou in Cyprus, on behalf of the CHRISTA lead partner Pafos Regional Board of Tourism. Both Diputacion de Granada and Pafos Regional Board of Tourism are members of ECTN, also represented on the ECTN Board.

ECTN is providing expertise on guidelines for the CHRISTA action plans.
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ECTN participates in the official opening of the 2018 EU-China Tourism Year at the Doge's Palace, Venice

ECTN had been invited by the European Commission DG GROW to to the official opening of the 2018 EU-China Tourism Year (ECTY) on Friday 19 January 2018 in Venice, at the Doge's Palace and the ECTN Secretary-General participated. The ECTY was announced jointly in July 2016 by the President of the European Commission and the Chinese Prime Minister. It aims at increasing the investment opportunities in China for European operators and boosting European growth and jobs by promoting Chinese tourism to the EU. ECTY was launched by Commissioner Bieńkowska and the Chairman of China National Tourism Administration.

​ECTN is ready to contribute to ECTY 2018, in terms of responsible and sustainable cultural tourism which is highly relevant to both EU and China tourism sectors. ECTN is also facilitating synergies between ECTY 2018 and EYCH 2018, as the only member of the EYCH 2018 Stakeholders Committee with a tourism mandate.
ECTN Secrtary-General Manos Vougioukas, Europa Nostra Vice-President Piet Jaspeart and European Travel Commission (ETC) Director-General Eduardo Santander at the launch of the EU-China Tourism Year 2018, Palazzo Ducale, Venice, 19 January 2018. On the right, the European Commissioner for Tourism Ezbieta Bienkowska.
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ECTN, Europa Nostra and ETC are cooperating in the Award for Sustainable Cultural Tourism Destinations in 2018 in the frame of the European Year of Cultural Heritage 2018.
A VERY HAPPY AND CREATIVE 2018 - EUROPEAN YEAR OF CULTURAL HERITAGE !


​ECTN participates in the European Culture Forum in Milan, Italy,

at the launch of European Year of Cultural Heritage 2018
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ECTN participates in the European Tourism Day 2017 in Brussels 
ECTN participated in the 2017 edition of the European Tourism Day on 28 November in Brussels, organised by the European Commission. This year the conference addressed the topic of "The future of EU tourism" and will look into issues such as access to finance under the next EU Multi-Annual Financial Framework, the tourism value chain and its implications on consumers, businesses and local communities as well as the future of tourism governance at EU, national and regional level. The event gathered up to 400 participants, including Commissioners, other representatives of the European Commission and high-level representatives of public authorities at EU, national and regional level. We’ll also line up representatives of prominent European sector associations, the tourism and travel industry as well as other relevant stakeholders.
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ECTN presented the 'Charter for Sustainable Cultural Tourism' and the 'European Year of Cultural Heritage 2018' at the NETWORLD International Conference on 'Tourism valorization of the First World War and other cultural heritage', Bucharest, 27 November 2017
FOODbiz Erasmus+ Project launched at Macerata University, Italy, with ECTN as a partner and ECTN members University of Goteborg, Sweden and University of Rijeka, Croatia, as partners
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Granada, Spain and Västra Götaland, Sweden, join ECTN Board

Representatives from Granada County Council (Diputación Provincial de Granada) - Spain, and from Västra Götaland Region (Västra Götalands Regionen) - Sweden, have been elected to join the Board of ECTN.

​They join the existing Board members, representatives from Vidzeme Tourism Association - Latvia (President), Pafos Regional Board of Tourism - Cyprus (Vice-President), Sibiu County Tourism Association - Romania, CIM Ave - Portugal, and Dubrovnik City Development Agency DURA - Croatia.
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Awards for Sustainable Cultural Tourism Destination 2017 go to Romania, Portugal and Croatia
10th Cultural Tourism Conference held in Sibiu, Romania, 20-21 September 2017
The 2017 ECTN Annual Conference has been organized in the framework of: ​
The United Nations 70th General Assembly has designated 2017 as the International Year of Sustainable Tourism for Development (IY2017), which is a unique opportunity to raise awareness on the contribution of sustainable tourism to development among public and private sector decision-makers and the public, while mobilizing all stakeholders to work together in making tourism a catalyst for positive change. IY2017 aims to support a change in policies, business practices and consumer behaviour towards a more sustainable tourism sector, facilitated by UNWTO. European Cultural Tourism Network joined the celebrations of the International Year by promoting tourism`s role in the key area of ‘Cultural Values, Diversity and Heritage’, one of the five key areas of the IY2017.
 
ECTN organizes an international conference since 2005 on a theme related to cultural tourism in a different country every year. For the past 4 years, the annual conference is organized in the frame of ‘European Heritage Days’ and ‘European Cooperation Day’. Our 2017 Conference theme was dovetailed with the UN IY2017 and took place within IY2017 activities.
 
The 10th international conference ‘Cultural Values, Diversity and Heritage: Pillars of Sustainable Tourism for Development’ discussed the latest trends in the field of cultural values, diversity and heritage towards sustainable tourism for development, including innovation, creativity, R&D and sustainable tourism product development. The conference explored major challenges, risks and opportunities for sustainable and responsible tourism development related to cultural values, diversity and heritage, as well as suggest practical steps for the development and marketing of cultural tourism products and services. ECTN as a signatory of the ‘European Tourism Manifesto for Growth & Jobs' has included this Conference in the Manifesto Working Programme 2017.
 
The conference was organised in close cooperation with Sibiu County Tourism Association and in conjunction with the Interreg Europe project CHRISTA – Culture and Heritage for Responsible, Innovative and Sustainable Tourism Actions (2016 – 2020).
Message by the UNWTO Secretary-General                Message by the Committee of the Regions         
ECTN at the Working Group of Member States' experts on Sustainable Cultural Tourism, in Bruges

ECTN presented its aims, activities and the Charter for Sustainable Cultural Tourism to the Open Method of Coordination (OMC) Working Group of Member States' experts Priority Area C "Cultural and Creative Sectors: Creative Economy and Innovation" Topic C3: Sustainable Cultural Tourism, in Bruges, Belgium, 12 September 2017
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European Parliament Conference “A European strategy to enhance the competitiveness of the tourism industry, a key driver for job creation”, in Brussels on 27 September, International Day of Tourism.



​The event was opened by European Parliament President Tajani, with the participation of Vice-President Katainen, the responsible Commissioners, the Chairs of the TRAN, IMCO and CULT parliamentary committees, leading MEPs, as well as the Presidents of the Economic and Social Committee and the Committee of the Regions, senior representatives from the European Investment Bank and other leading stakeholders.

Discover the detailed programme of the event here:
http://www.europarl.europa.eu/news/en/headlines/eu-affairs/20170901STO82905/

​Aimed at citizens, policy makers, the investor community, market participants of the tourist sector and stakeholders’ representatives, the conference will look at the Tourist sector, focussing discussion on three areas:
·         Supporting investments, improving the business environment and upgrading skills;
·         Tourism innovation and digital economy;
·         Promoting Europe as the number one tourist destination.


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​NEWS from members

ECTN is pleased to welcome new members as well as previous members re-joining, in order to benefit from the activities and strong membership !​
ECTN is a member of the:
ECTN is a signatory of the:
ECTN Projects:
International Conference – The Visitor Economy: Strategies & Innovations
ECTN presented the Charter for Sustainable Cultural Tourism at the Visitor Economy Conference at Bournemouth University, on 5 September 2017.
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MEPs, regions, cities and the tourism industry urge the European Commission to come forward with a European Tourism Strategy. 40 MEPs, more than 70 Members of the European Committee of the Regions and representatives of Europe's tourism industry call for a comprehensive strategy supporting the tourism sector in an Open Letter addressed to the President of the European Commission Jean-Claude Juncker. READ MORE
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EYCH 2018 Stakeholder Committee 1st Report published !
ECTN welcomes new member to the network from Cyprus - Nicosia Tourism Board
1 June 2017
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​​TENDER for subcontracting external expertise regarding policies on INTERPRETATION FACILITIES for SUSTAINABLE and RESPONSIBLE TOURISM in the scope of Interreg Europe programme project CHRISTA. TENDER is CLOSED!

To receive Tender Specification and Proposal Form, potential Applicants should send a request to email: coordinator(at)culturaltourism-net.eu.
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30 May 2017
​ECTN welcomes new member to the network from Ireland - Cork City Council
26 May 2017
ECTN is selected by the European Commission as a key stakeholder for the European Year of Cultural Heritage 2018
3 May 2017

​The selection by DG EAC followed a special call of the ‘Voices of Culture and Heritage’ in which 310 applications have been submitted and 35 stakeholder bodies have been selected, including ECTN. READ MORE
ECTN Secretary General Manos Vougioukas has been selected in the programme of the symposium 'The Future of Tourism in Europe: Promoting Competitiveness Through Sustainability and Digitisation' on the initiatives to promote Europe’s Cultural Heritage in Brussels on 4 July 2017.
7 April 2017 

Europa Nostra's Call for Contributions of Examples of Best Practices and Innovative Methods: ​deadline 15 April
5 April 2017

Europa Nostra is looking for contributions from all over Europe on inspiring management and funding models; innovative communication practices; and education and public engagement activities in heritage. Your contribution will be compiled in a toolkit for civil society organisations working in the field of heritage throughout Europe. READ MORE
ECTN participates in a high-level event of European Parliament and UNWTO on 'Connecting Europe through Innovations' in Madrid on 24 March 2017.
​5 April 2017
READ MORE
ECTN participates in the 1st  UNWTO World Conference on Smart Destinations
16 February 2017

The 1st World Conference on Smart Destinations took place at Murcia, Spain, co-organized by UN World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), the Spanish Ministry of Tourism and the Region de Murcia, with the participation of ECTN. READ MORE
Civil society calls on EU Leaders to recognise fundamental role of Cultural Heritage for the future of Europe
3 February 2017

Ahead of the informal summit of European leaders on the future of the EU in Valletta on 03.02.2017, 40 European heritage networks that form the European Heritage Alliance 3.3 are urging EU leaders to recognise the fundamental role of Europe’s shared cultural heritage for bringing people in Europe together. READ MORE
ECTN joins the celebrations for the UN International Year of Sustainable Tourism for Development 2017!
9 January 2017

The contribution of ECTN to celebrating #IY2017 is mainly in the form of sharing the Thessalia Charter for Sustainable Cultural Tourism – Second edition, which will be included in the #IY2017 website under ‘sharing solutions’, all of our events and activities planned to take place during 2017. READ MORE
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37 European and international heritage networks, that are part of the European Heritage Alliance 3.3, including ECTN, have sent a joint letter calling on 28 EU Heads of State or Government to fully support the European Year of Cultural Heritage in 2018, and especially to allocate adequate financial resources to the implementation of the Year.

Members of the Alliance also urge the EU Heads of State or Government to seize the historic opportunity of the event marking the 60th anniversary of the Treaty of Rome on 25 March 2017 to publicly recognise that the entire European project has a wider cultural meaning and significance derived from our shared cultural heritage, both tangible and intangible. Read the full text of the letter with the list of signatories HERE.
ECTN welcomes new member to the network from Hungary - Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Pecs - Baranya
22 December 2016
ECTN organised a special event in Brussels on 30 November 2016, to launch the 2nd edition of the 'Charter for Sustainable Cultural Tourism' and in preparation for the European Year of Cultural Heritage 2018. READ MORE
ECTN welcomes new member to the network from Ukraine - Ukrainian Federation of Employers in Tourism 
15 December 2016
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ECTN Secretary-General Manos Vougioukas made an intervention at the European Tourism Day event in Brussels on 29th November 2016.
READ MORE

ECTN signed the Memorandum of Understanding and Cooperation with the European Federation of Associations of Industrial and Technical Heritage
30 November 2016

Raitis Sijats, President of ECTN, Chairman of Vidzeme Tourism Association (Latvia) signed Memorandum of Understanding and Cooperation with European Federation of Associations of Industrial and Technical Heritage (E-FAITH). READ MORE
Best Creative Destination: Pafos Region
22 November 2016

We are pleased to inform that Pafos Region – Cyprus (ECTN Vice-Presidency) received the Creative Tourism Award 2016: Best Creative Destination. Creative Tourism is included in the new version of THESSALIA CHARTER, to be launched in Brussels, during a special workshop on 30 November 2016.
ECTN at ‘World Travel Market’ tourism fair in London, 7-9 November 2016
10 November 2016

ECTN members participated as exhibitors at this year’s ‘World Travel Market’ (WTM) tourism fair in London’s Excel exhibition venue: Central Macedonia Region (Greece), Pafos Regional Board of Tourism (Cyprus), Granada (Andalucia, Spain), Burgas (Bulgaria), Sibiu (Romania), Ave & Alto Minhio (North Portugal), Bournemouth University (UK), were there. READ MORE
ECTN President addressed Cultural Routes Forum in Vilnius
25 October 2016

President of European Cultural Tourism Network (ECTN), Mr Raitis Sijats, addressed the Cultural Routes of the Council of Europe Forum, which took place at the Radisson Blu Hotel Lietuva from 26 – 27 October 2016 in Vilnius, Lithuania. READ MORE
Our project proposal Cult - RInG is APPROVED!
7 October 2016
We are very happy to inform that project proposal Cult-RInG - Culture Routes as Investment for Growth and Jobs submitted in the 2nd Call of the Interreg Europe programme with ECTN as an Advisory Partner and our members as Project Partners from 6 destinations across Europe  is APPROVED! List of the projects approved in the second call for proposals can be found HERE.
Awards for 'Destination of Sustainable Cultural Tourism 2016'  go to Latvia, Greece and Spain
27 September 2016

The winners of the ECTN Award 2016 on the theme ‘Intangible Heritage Tourism' were announced at the Award ceremony on 23 September 2016, Guimaraes, Portugal. READ MORE
Conference on Intangible Heritage Tourism in the frame of Interreg Europe programme and Award of Sustainable Cultural Tourism Destination in Guimaraes
14 September 2016

The 9th international conference for Cultural Tourism in Europe took place in Guimaraes, Portugal on 23 – 24 September 2016, on the theme ‘Intangible Heritage: Incomparable Asset for Sustainable and Responsible Tourism Development’. READ MORE
South Pelion re-joins the Network
13 September 2016

We are very please to report ​that South Pelion Municipality in Greece, the Lead Partner of the successfully completed INTERREG IVC project CHARTS and a previous member of ECTN in 2012-2014, has recently re-joined our Network as a destination member.
South Pelion will be represented by its Tourism Committee, comprising elected representatives councillors, representatives of SMEs in the tourism sector and citizens.
European Year of Cultural Heritage 2018 announced with particular reference to sustainable cultural tourism
2 September 2016

​ECTN greatly welcomes the EYCH 2018 and will strive to incorporate its activities into the EYCH programme. READ MORE
ECTN welcomes new member to the network from Portugal - Intermunicipal Community of Alto Minho
1 September 2016
E-FAITH signed the Memorandum of Understanding and Cooperation with ECTN during the 2016 E-FAITH Weekend for volunteers and voluntary associations on theme ‘Industrial Heritage Tourism: the role of volunteers and local citizens’, which took place on 17—19 June in Antwerp, Belgium.
​Conclusions and the results of the meeting will be available HERE. 
12 July 2016
Cultural Heritage
Counts for Europe

compelling evidence of the value of cultural heritage and its impact on Europe’s economy, culture, society and the environment
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ECTN Partners:
ECTN signs the European Tourism Manifesto for Growth & Jobs. READ MORE
16 June 2016
​​TENDER for subcontracting external expertise regarding policies on INTANGIBLE HERITAGE for SUSTAINABLE and RESPONSIBLE TOURISM. Tender Specification. Form.
14 June 2016
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EU project to protect and preserve European natural and cultural heritage assets and to deploy them for the innovative, sustainable and responsible tourism strategies 
31 May 2016

​CHRISTA project started in April 2016, involving 10 partners from 10 EU Member States regional and local authorities, as well as tourism authorities in 9 EU regions. READ MORE
Other NEWS

2016