Day 3 of the 13th Training Academy Focuses on Future Cooperation and the Development of Cultural Routes

The third and final day of the 13th Training Academy of the Cultural Routes of the Council of Europe brought participants together in Pécs to reflect on the key outcomes of the Academy and discuss future directions for the Cultural Routes Programme.

Building on the exchanges and experiences of the previous days, the programme opened with presentations of the conclusions from the thematic discussion groups and the sessions on sustainable tourism. Participants shared insights on network management, youth participation, scientific cooperation, representativeness, and the evolving role of Cultural Routes in addressing contemporary challenges.

The remainder of the morning was dedicated to participant-led sessions, providing an opportunity for route representatives to present ongoing initiatives and exchange good practices. Topics included responsible tourism and local infrastructure development, accessibility and inclusion, youth engagement, visibility and communication, international cooperation, and preparations for the upcoming 40th anniversary of the Cultural Routes Programme.

These discussions once again demonstrated the value of the Academy as a platform for peer learning and collaboration, bringing together representatives from across Europe to share experiences and jointly explore solutions to common challenges.

Participants also received updates on future developments within the Cultural Routes Programme, including the 2026 Forum on Cultural Routes and preparations for the 2027 Academy, which will take place within the framework of the 40th anniversary of the Santiago Declaration and the Cultural Routes Programme.

The formal programme concluded with a collective evaluation of the Academy and closing remarks, marking the end of three days of dialogue, learning, and networking under this year's theme, Confidence and Diversity.

As host of the Academy, the Roman Emperors and Danube Wine Route was honoured to welcome route representatives, experts, and stakeholders from across Europe. The event highlighted the importance of cooperation, cultural exchange, and mutual support in strengthening the Cultural Routes network and advancing shared goals related to heritage preservation, sustainable tourism, and European cultural dialogue. 

Following the formal closing, participants continued their exploration of Pécs through guided visits to the city's historic centre before attending the opening of the Roman Parade, providing a fitting conclusion to an Academy dedicated to heritage, cooperation, and cultural connections.

The 13th Training Academy may have come to an end, but the partnerships strengthened, ideas exchanged, and initiatives launched during these three days will continue to contribute to the future development of Cultural Routes across Europe.