The University Network for Cultural Routes Studies invites scholars and practitioners to submit papers for its 2nd International Conference, taking place 12–13 November 2026 in Lugano, Switzerland.

The conference builds on the success of the 2024 edition in Santiago de Compostela and focuses on advancing research and collaboration around the Cultural Routes of the Council of Europe programme, a flagship initiative connecting tangible and intangible heritage across Europe.

About the Conference

Organized by the European Institute of Cultural Routes in collaboration with the Università della Svizzera italiana, the conference aims to:

• highlight current academic research on cultural routes
• strengthen the University Network for Cultural Routes Studies
• foster collaboration between scholars and practitioners
• disseminate knowledge supporting European identity and heritage

The event welcomes interdisciplinary contributions from tourism, heritage studies, communication, geography, history, digital humanities, economics, and related fields.

Types of Contributions

1. Ongoing Research & Published Papers

• Presented at the conference for discussion and networking
• Not included in the conference proceedings

2. Original Research

• Must present unpublished, high-quality research
• Eligible for publication in the forthcoming Handbook on Cultural Routes

Important Dates

• Abstract submission (max 500 words): 19 April 2026
• Notification of acceptance: 19 May 2026
• Full paper submission (handbook candidates): 13 September 2026
• Conference dates: 12–13 November 2026 (Lugano)
• Final manuscript to publisher: 17 January 2027

Authors of accepted papers are expected to present in person in Lugano.

Handbook Publication Opportunity

Selected original research papers will be considered for inclusion in the forthcoming volume:

“Scientific Studies on the Cultural Routes of the Council of Europe: Evidence, Impacts, and Future Research,”
edited by Silvia De Ascaniis and Lorenzo Cantoni.

The handbook will synthesize current scientific knowledge and outline future research directions, with a strong focus on sustainable tourism, cultural cooperation, and regional development.

Submission Details

• Language: English
• Abstract length: max 500 words
• Total length: max 10 000 words
• Submission platform: EasyChair
• Referencing style: APA 7th
• Keywords: 5–7 required

Authors must ensure originality, proper anonymization for peer review, and ethical compliance where relevant.