Valencia Funds Holy Grail Route to Boost Cultural Tourism and European Ties

The Provincial Council of Valencia has awarded a significant grant to the Cultural Association El Camino del Santo Grial to consolidate and promote the European Cultural Route "The Way of the Holy Grail, Route of Knowledge, Path of Peace." This strategic funding, granted via Presidential Decree No. 13616, aims to position Valencia as a premier cultural destination by leveraging the province's unique heritage, particularly the Holy Chalice housed in Valencia Cathedral. Deputy for Tourism Pedro Cuesta emphasized the initiative's role in connecting heritage, identity, and sustainable tourism, while the association has committed to transparency and executing promotional activities to enhance the route's visibility and territorial cohesion across Valencian municipalities.

The grant supports a multifaceted development plan with long-term advantages for the province, including international positioning as a European cultural epicenter, territorial structuring linking diverse landscapes from valleys to coastlines, and tourism diversification through cultural and spiritual experiences. Key actions focus on promoting tangible and intangible heritage, fostering local economic opportunities in tourism and crafts, and strengthening European values like peace and intercultural dialogue. The route's consolidation within the Council of Europe's Cultural Routes Programme opens doors for broader institutional and academic cooperation, reinforcing Valencia's commitment to sustainable cultural development and good governance.

Spanning 18 municipalities from Algimia de Alfara to Valencia, the route weaves through historic sites, natural wonders, and cultural hubs, each contributing to a rich narrative of pilgrimage and heritage. Notable stops include Sagunto with its Roman and Jewish heritage, the coastal symbolism of Port of Sagunto, and the spiritual center at El Puig de Santa Maria, believed to have hosted the Holy Chalice. Municipalities like Massamagrell and Emperador demonstrate active engagement through cultural events and signage, while Valencia's Cathedral serves as the culminating point, solidifying the province's role as a global reference for the Holy Grail. This institutional collaboration underscores a vision for regenerative tourism that balances economic growth with heritage conservation and community cohesion.