On the occasion of the European Elections of 26th May, the European Association of Via Francigena Ways (EAVF) sent an invite to all the representatives of the North-East regions of Italy to meet in Fidenza to discuss the Via Francigena and the cultural routes of Europe.

 “The European Association of Via Francigena Ways (EAVF) is an association of (from today) 152 local and regional European entities, located along the 2,000km of the Via Francigena from Canterbury to Rome through England, France, Switzerland and Italy founded on 7th April 2001 in Fidenza (Parma). – recalls the EAVF president, Massimo Tedeschi – The most important result after 18 years of activity is the increasing number of walkers and pilgrims – estimated at 50,000 last year – who travel the Francigena on foot or by bike.“

“The ‘Cultural Routes of the Council of Europe’ and the Via Francigena were thought of to raise awareness within Europe to promote its ideals: intercultual dialogue, social cohesion, sustainable development – underlined Tedeschi – The planning for UNESCO classification of the Via Francigena and the extension of the ‘Cultural Routes of the Council of Europe’ classification to the south of Italy also demonstrate this development.“

“In the name of the EAVF Executive Board, – concludes Tedeschi – given the European Parliamentary elections and the important themes to be called upon, I would be very glad if our invitation to visit our European headquarters in Fidenza (piazza Duomo 16) is accepted for a meeting to share information and ideas on the aforementioned themes.“