Fondazione Santagata is supporting the Association for the UNESCO Candidacy – Riccione Office in drafting a feasibility study aimed at the creation of a European network of historic seaside towns, through the preparation of a dossier for the “Cultural Route of the Council of Europe” certification.

Context

As part of the ongoing activities for research and the development of a strategic agenda to engage the local community and visitors, Fondazione Santagata has identified an opportunity for the Association and the Riccione community to take the lead in proposing a nomination that enhances seaside tourism as a key element of cultural heritage, collective memory, and local history and identity.

To this end, the “Cultural Routes” programme, launched by the Council of Europe in 1987, represents an ideal tool for cultural promotion and valorisation. The “Cultural Route of the Council of Europe” certification is a mark of excellence designed for networks of sites sharing a common heritage, located in at least three European countries. Through this programme, the Council of Europe offers a model for transnational cultural and tourism management, enabling synergies between national, regional and local authorities, associations, and a wide range of socio-economic stakeholders.

Objectives

The project aims to carry out a feasibility study addressing the following aspects:

  • Identification of the Cultural Route theme

Each Cultural Route must present a theme that reflects European values and is meaningful to the memory, history, and heritage of Europe, contributing to the interpretation of today’s European diversity. The first step will therefore be to define the theme of the proposed Cultural Route, synthesising the historical, sociological, and cultural evidence collected so far.

  • Identification of potential partner locations in Europe

Once the theme is established, the study will identify other potential European locations where the theme is recognisable. Common criteria will be developed using a rigorous scientific approach (e.g. historical relevance, type of tourism, thematic coherence, existing projects, etc.). The Cultural Routes programme requires a minimum of three participating countries. The number of partners – which may grow over time – must strike a balance between operational efficiency, agility, and credibility during the application phase.

  • Detailed outline of the application dossier development process

A detailed roadmap will be presented, outlining the necessary steps for the preparation of the application dossier. The proposal will include possible roles, responsibilities, and commitments for local stakeholders (the Association, Municipality, museum, etc.) to move the process forward.

Expected Outcomes / Impact

Research document

Partner

Association for the UNESCO Candidacy – Riccione Office