World Tourism Day, celebrated every year on 27 September, was established by the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) in 1980. This important holiday celebrates the role of tourism in our lives, its impact on the economy, culture, sustainable development and international relations.
It is an excellent opportunity to promote tourism as an important branch of the economy, as well as to emphasize how tourism contributes to the understanding and appreciation of cultural diversity and allows people from different parts of the world to learn about other cultures, traditions and customs.
WTD also focuses on the importance of protecting the natural environment and cultural heritage, as well as the benefits of responsible travel.
Tourism plays a key role in dialogue between nations. This year's theme, "Tourism and Peace", encourages reflection on how travel can contribute to building bridges between cultures and promoting global understanding. It fits perfectly with the mission of the Shrines of Europe association.
The association organizes various events, conferences and projects that promote the ideas of peace and cooperation. These initiatives often involve local communities and aim to support the sustainable development of tourism.
In the context of the activities of the Shrines of Europe, the theme of this year's celebrations takes on a special meaning.
The Shrines of Europe is a network of cities that are important pilgrimage sites offering space for reflection, prayer and meditation, which helps to achieve inner peace and harmony. Every year, pilgrims from different countries and cultures travel to Altötting (Germany), Mariazell (Austria), Częstochowa (Poland), Lourdes (France), Loreto (Italy), Fatima (Portugal) and Einsiedeln (Switzerland), which fosters intercultural dialogue and mutual understanding and helps build tolerance and respect for diversity.
