International Congress Explores Holy Grail's Cultural Impact and Sustainable Tourism

The town of Massamagrell in Valencia, Spain, recently hosted the III International Congress on Journalism and Communication: The Way of the Holy Grail (III CIDyPECSG), a two-day event that united experts, academics, and cultural enthusiasts from around the world. The congress, which took place against the backdrop of recent tragic floods in Valencia, focused on exploring the historical, cultural, and social significance of the Holy Grail, particularly its journey through Spain, France, and Italy.

The event began with a solemn tribute to the victims of the Valencia floods, setting a tone of reflection and unity. Local and international authorities, including Pilar Peris Barres, Mayoress of Massamagrell, and Dr. Ana Mafé García, President of the International Association Cultural Itinerary of the Holy Grail, opened the congress with speeches emphasizing the importance of cultural heritage in times of crisis.

The first day of the congress centered on the Mediterranean connection of the Holy Grail Route, featuring discussions on cultural heritage preservation, route signage, and the integration of tradition with modern technology. Presentations highlighted the potential of the Holy Grail Route as a European Cultural Itinerary and its role in fostering international understanding. The day also saw the announcement of the 1st International Conference 'Universities and Cultural Routes' scheduled for November 2024 in Santiago de Compostela, underlining the academic world's commitment to cultural preservation and exchange.

A significant focus of the congress was the engagement of European youth through educational and cultural exchanges, with speakers discussing the opportunities presented by programs like Erasmus+. The importance of valuing both tangible and intangible heritage along the Holy Grail Route was emphasized, with Dr. Gabriel Songel González delivering a keynote lecture on the historical significance of stonemason marks.

The second day of the congress shifted focus to sustainable tourism and digital innovation. Dr. Fernando Molina Pons presented a model for "circular and regenerative" tourism, highlighting the potential of identity-based cultural routes as a means of sustainable development. The role of audiovisual media in amplifying the cultural relevance of the Holy Grail was explored, with presentations from academics and filmmakers demonstrating the power of storytelling in cultural preservation.

The congress also delved into the concept of sacred geometry in European cultural identity, with experts discussing how geometric principles have shaped Europe's cultural legacy. This session underscored the shared interpretive keys among European countries concerning the Holy Grail, reinforcing the idea of a common cultural heritage.

In addressing the future of cultural tourism, the congress emphasized the need for sustainable practices. Strategies for identity-based cultural tourism routes were presented, focusing on circular and regenerative approaches to preserve cultural and natural heritage while promoting economic growth. The integration of digital communication tools in cultural tourism was also explored, with experts sharing insights on using data analysis and storytelling to promote cultural routes effectively.

The congress concluded with a vision for the future, emphasizing the importance of preserving the Holy Grail Route as a symbol of shared European heritage. Key initiatives were proposed, including the consolidation of a network of regenerative and solidarity-driven intelligent routes and the activation of a joint technical office to enhance the social, economic, and environmental impact of municipalities along these routes.

This international gathering has significant implications for the future of cultural tourism and heritage preservation. By bringing together experts from various fields, the congress has laid the groundwork for innovative approaches to sustainable tourism that respect and celebrate cultural heritage. The emphasis on youth engagement and international cooperation suggests a long-term vision for preserving and promoting cultural routes like the Way of the Holy Grail.

As the world grapples with challenges such as climate change and cultural preservation, events like the III CIDyPECSG demonstrate the potential of cultural heritage to serve as a unifying force, promoting understanding and cooperation across borders. The congress's focus on sustainable and regenerative tourism models also points to a future where cultural preservation and economic development can go hand in hand, offering a blueprint for other regions looking to leverage their cultural assets responsibly.