In Salento the Via Francigena del Sud becomes a model of accessibility

ROME (ITALPRESS) – After the launch of the Cammino di Francesco, the commitment of the Ministry of Tourism continues for the enhancement of Italian paths as a strategic infrastructure for slow, sustainable, and identity tourism. An investment that focuses on Salento, with the project “For an Accessible Via Francigena del Sud for Everyone,” funded by the Ministry and nearing completion. The initiative, promoted by the Municipality of Poggiardo as the lead partner, in collaboration with the European Association of the Via Francigena – AEVF and the Association Mollare Mai, covers about 120 km and 5 stages of the Via Francigena between Lecce and Santa Maria di Leuca, with specific actions in the municipalities of Poggiardo, Cannole, Giuggianello, Giurdignano, Martano, Palmariggi, and Tricase, and benefits also for other centers crossed. An innovative model that makes the Via Francigena del Sud a pioneer in Italy for accessibility in a broad sense: not only for motor, sensory, and cognitive disabilities, but also for needs related to age, nutrition, and temporary conditions. The project includes mapping critical points, georeferencing the route, services, and places of interest, maintenance interventions, and the development of augmented and virtual reality tools for inclusive enjoyment of the heritage. There are also plans for rest areas with first aid kits, smart benches powered by solar panels, and tactile QR codes. 

The project, which follows the AEVF Vademecum on the accessible Via Francigena and continues the path started with “Via Francigena For All” and “HIKE4ALL,” is part of the national strategy to support the candidacy of the Italian Via Francigena for UNESCO World Heritage status, currently under evaluation, with results expected in October 2026. As part of the project, from September 23 to 25, BTM Interazioni will stop in Poggiardo with a fam trip for national and international buyers, B2B meetings with local operators, and on September 25 at 3 PM at the Palazzo della Cultura, a national conference on accessible tourism along the paths. [Source Italpress]