Scientific Conference
Paul VI Pastoral Center, Fátima, Portugal
22–23 October 2026
For three decades, the Shrines of Europe network has brought together leading Marian pilgrimage cities in a unique transnational partnership rooted in shared faith, history, culture and European values. The initiative promotes intercultural dialogue, peace-building and sustainable regional development while safeguarding the rich spiritual and cultural heritage of Europe.
The year 2026 marks the 30th anniversary of Shrines of Europe, highlighting the network’s role as a model of European cooperation and unity. Through cultural exchange, youth engagement and intergenerational dialogue, the Shrines strengthen local communities and foster meaningful cross-border collaboration. Welcoming millions of pilgrims and visitors every year, the member cities create encounters that connect cultures, generations and traditions, demonstrating how shared heritage can inspire cohesion and a vibrant common future.
To celebrate this milestone, a Scientific Conference titled “Sacred Spaces – Shared Futures” will take place at the Paul VI Pastoral Center in Fátima, Portugal, on 22–23 October 2026.
The conference will feature a keynote speech by
Prof. Carlos Costa, Full Professor at the University of Aveiro, tourism expert for the European Commission and President of the Tourism Platform of Portugal,
along with distinguished speakers representing academia, tourism, heritage management and pilgrimage cities across Europe.
The programme will include:
The conference aims to explore the role of pilgrimage cities as places where heritage, tourism and spirituality meet, and to discuss how these sacred spaces can contribute to sustainable development, intercultural dialogue and the future of Europe.
By bringing together scholars, practitioners and representatives of the Shrines of Europe cities, the event will provide a platform for reflection, exchange of experience and the development of new ideas for the next decades of cooperation.
