Council of Europe cultural routes

Launched in 1987 with the Santiago de Compostela pilgrimage trail, the Council of Europe's cultural routes zigzag their way through Europe, following in the footsteps of traders, artisans, religious orders, musicians and inventors and marking important economic and social advances – from the harvesting and marketing of wine and olives, to the march of industry and the development of the spa for recreation and health.

Whether representing the Hansa traders of the middle-ages or the history of the Roma, the routes reveal the meaning of diversity, and how it can benefit society by fostering stable, tolerant and prosperous societies. Attracting more than six million visitors a day, the routes are an important reminder of the fact that our cultural heritage is an important part of our identity, and that respect for that culture is a right.