World Tourism Event - WTE

On the occasion of the Holy Year and the recent inclusion of the Via Appia - Regina Viarum in the list of World Heritage Sites, the World Tourism Event (WTE) returns for its sixteenth edition in Rome, in the Santo Spirito in Sassia monumental complex, one of the oldest hospitals in the city and in Europe. Dedicated to the promotion, enhancement and protection of UNESCO-recognized destinations, WTE is an important international showcase for cultural tourism, promoting the meeting of institutions, tourism organizations, tourist operators and travelers.

The event is organized with the patronage and contribution of the Lazio Region, with the patronage of the Ministry of Culture, the Ministry of Tourism, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and ICOMOS Italia - International Council on Monuments and Sites Italian National Committee. As in previous editions, the WTE format includes an exhibition area, open to all and free to visit, dedicated to Italian and international UNESCO heritage sites and to professionals in the sector, including tour operators. Visitors have the opportunity to receive detailed information on the sites and tourist accommodation and to interact with tourism agencies and operators.

A key event for professionals (international buyers, selected in collaboration with ENIT, the Italian National Tourism Agency, and Italian sellers based and operating in areas included in the UNESCO World Heritage List) is the B2B workshop taking place on 25 September with two sessions, one in the morning and one in the afternoon. The workshop aims to promote the territory, accommodation facilities and cultural experiences of these unique destinations. The events and experiences area is also open to all and free of charge. It is a dynamic space with demonstrations, conferences and book presentations, opportunities to meet and learn more about architecture, unique landscapes and authentic and sustainable travel experiences. Specific focus is dedicated to local schools to raise awareness among the younger generation about the protection of UNESCO heritage sites and, at the same time, offer them new opportunities for growth and employment.

This year, for the first time, WTE is hosting the Mario Bagnara Award ceremony for sustainable tourism, an award aimed at promoting a culture of responsible travel that respects cultural and environmental heritage.