Gödöllő, Hungary – 7 November 2024
In a historic step towards enhancing European cultural tourism, the Via Habsburg Route and the Historic Cafes Route of the Council of Europe have announced plans for a collaborative partnership. This future cooperation, unveiled during the conference at the Royal Palace of Gödöllő, aims to strengthen cultural ties and expand heritage tourism across Europe.
The Via Habsburg Route, represented by President Reinhold Sahl, and the Historic Cafes Route, represented by President Arnold Günter Klingeis, will develop a joint travel program that showcases Europe’s rich history through iconic cafes, restaurants, and hotels. This partnership, rooted in the Cultural Routes Directive from Sibiu 2019, will combine efforts to create unique travel experiences that highlight the cultural significance of historic sites.
Key initiatives include:
- Cultural Route Expansion: Brukenthal Palace, headquarters of the Historic Cafes Route, will be integrated into the Habsburg Route.
- Digital Innovation and Youth Engagement: In collaboration with Cluj IT Hub, the partnership will develop a digital platform that enhances route accessibility and engages young audiences.
- Comprehensive Travel Experience: Travelers will be able to enjoy a curated experience that merges historical insights with Europe’s café culture, aligning with other notable cultural routes, such as the Iter Vitis Route, which celebrates wine traditions.
This partnership, which will be implemented in three phases from 2025 to 2026, will be presented at the Council of Europe’s Annual Advisory Forum in Turkey in 2025 as a model for international cooperation in cultural heritage.
Through this joint effort, the Via Habsburg and Historic Cafes Routes are committed to enriching European tourism, offering travelers new ways to connect with and explore the continent's historical and cultural legacy.
