Central European universities have created a digital map of pilgrimage sites in the V4 countries

 

 

This interactive platform allows visitors to discover the spiritual and cultural richness of the region through a digital map. Each pilgrimage site is accompanied by information on transport accessibility, accommodation options and nearby attractions or tourist sights. "Pilgrimage tourism is enjoying a renaissance and appeals not only to the faithful but also to secular visitors. Wandering is not just a physical activity, but also a return to simplicity and a search for deeper connections. Central European pilgrimage sites unite generations and recall a rich history that dates back to the arrival of St Cyril and Methodius. Through pilgrimages, national and Christian identity was strengthened, communities were built, belonging and the original culture of each country was fostered. In many places, the main pilgrimages are still accompanied by a rich cultural programme, folk music and people come dressed in traditional folk costumes," said Jana Černá, head of the research team from the Institute of Management of the University of St. Cyril and Methodius in Trnava. The authors of the map are planning its further development and extension with new functionalities that will make pilgrimage tourism in the V4 region more attractive. The Association of Pilgrimage Organisations (APO) worked on a similar idea in the past, but according to Maria Prekopova from APO, it was only on the national level. "This digital map offers a much broader, international dimension," said M. Prekopová.

 

The project involved:

 

University of St. Cyril and Methodius in Trnava (SK) - Principal Investigator,

John Paul II Pontifical University in Krakow (PL),

Budapest Business University in Budapest (HU),

Ultreia Association (CZ),

GoSlovakia (SK).

 

The project was implemented with the financial support of the Visegrad Fund. More information can be found at www.europepilgrime.eu