by InTrieste
In a celebration of cultural heritage and sustainable tourism, Sergio Emidio Bini, the Regional Councillor for Tourism and Economic Activities of Friuli Venezia Giulia, addressed a gathering of industry leaders and experts at the “Aquileia Sustainable Destination” conference this week. Held at the historic “Ca’ Tullio Winery” in the UNESCO World Heritage town of Aquileia, the event marked the 26th anniversary of the town’s inscription on the prestigious UNESCO World Heritage List.
“Tourism has evolved significantly in recent years, and Friuli Venezia Giulia offers a diverse range of attractions that today’s travelers are increasingly drawn to,” Bini told attendees. “From history and culture to nature, art cities, charming villages, and excellent local cuisine, this region provides everything for those seeking an authentic, slow vacation experience. UNESCO cities like Aquileia are at the forefront of this movement, attracting international tourists eager to explore Italy’s rich cultural tapestry.”
Bini highlighted the region’s comprehensive approach to tourism, which includes not only its coastal destinations but also its mountain areas, cultural institutions, and experiential offerings. “We are creating a system that promotes itself, where tourists who visit our beaches are inspired to discover the inland treasures, museums, and cultural activities that define the area,” Bini said.
The conference also served as a platform to acknowledge the success of the Aquileia Foundation’s collaboration with PromoTurismoFVG and the Municipality of Aquileia. The efforts of the foundation have led to impressive results, with a 10% increase in tourist arrivals in the town’s accommodations in 2023. Visits to key cultural sites, including the Basilica, National Archaeological Museum, Early Christian Museum, and several ancient ruins, rose by 15%, surpassing half a million visits.
Bini emphasized that the region’s goal is to continue working collaboratively to increase Aquileia’s visibility both domestically and abroad. “The results we’ve achieved are the product of consistent effort, and we aim to expand upon them to ensure that more people experience the unique charm of this remarkable destination,” he added.
The event, organized by the Aquileia Foundation, brought together professionals from the tourism and cultural sectors, including publishers, journalists, and operators, to discuss trends in sustainable tourism, the preservation of cultural heritage, and the impact of climate change. Topics such as slow tourism, pilgrimage trails, and the opportunities presented by the upcoming Go!2025 event also featured prominently in the discussions.
The conference will continue on Thursday, December 6, with a specialized session dedicated to ancient navigation, titled “Ports, Landings, and Ancient Routes: Communication Routes and the Valorization of Material and Immaterial Heritage in the Mediterranean.” The session will explore the region’s maritime history and its importance in shaping both local culture and international trade routes throughout antiquity.
In attendance were Aquileia’s Mayor, Emanuele Zorino, and Roberto Corciulo, President of the Aquileia Foundation. Together, they reiterated their commitment to preserving and promoting the town’s historical and cultural assets as essential components of a thriving and sustainable tourism industry.
