Patrimonio culturale di interesse religioso, turismo religioso e cammini della fede: fonti, esperienze e prospettive civili ed ecclesiali per lo sviluPPo degli ecosistemi turistici dei territori e delle comunità

This contribution analyzes the role of cultural heritage of religious interest and faith-based pilgrimage routes in the development of sustainable tourism ecosystems, from both civil and ecclesial perspectives. The article opens with an international legal framework for the protection of religious cultural heritage, considering the dialectic between the material and immaterial dimensions of heritage and their phenomenological implications. It then explores the phenomenon of cultural-religious pilgrimage routes, with particular attention to the relevant regulatory context. The focus shifts to the Catholic Church’s engagement, especially through the experiences of Ecclesial Cultural Parks and initiatives promoted in view of the Jubilee of Hope. A dedicated section addresses the issue of religious hospitality along pilgrimage routes, analyzed both from a legal perspective and in terms of good ecclesial practices. The article then delves into the ecosystemic approach to religious tourism, illustrating two research projects involving the tourism network experiences of the Emilia-Romagna region and those launched in the province and diocese of Piacenza-Bobbio through the analysis of the St. Columbanus Way and the creation of the ‘Terra di Passo’ Ecclesial Cultural Park Foundation of participation (ETS). In conclusion, the article offers forward-looking reflections on policies and participatory, integrated, and multilevel models for the promotion of religious tourism ecosystems capable of integrating spirituality, sustainability, and territorial development.