Heritage Sites, Devotion, and Quality Enhancement in Tourism: The Promotion and Management of Ancient Marian Places of Worship along the Appian Way in Puglia and Basilicata

Religious tourism, particularly Marian pilgrimage along the Appian Way in Puglia and Basilicata, emerges as a powerful driver for cultural and economic revitalization. This study reveals that integrating devotional practices with sustainable tourism strategies can enhance the quality of life for local communities while preserving spiritual values. The research identifies Marian shrines as pivotal cultural and economic poles, often overlooked by mass tourism, which hold significant potential for experiential and high-quality tourism. By analyzing pilgrimage flows and the diachronic evolution of these sites, the study proposes a serial itinerary that combines material and immaterial heritage, offering a sustainable rediscovery approach aligned with European and local guidelines. The findings underscore the importance of partnerships, local engagement, and quality assessment in managing such heritage routes effectively.

Oliva, L., & Trono, A. (2023). Heritage Sites, Devotion, and Quality Enhancement in Tourism: The Promotion and Management of Ancient Marian Places of Worship along the Appian Way in Puglia and Basilicata. Religions, 14(12), 1548. https://doi.org/10.3390/rel14121548