Abstract
After COVID19 many questions related to life-style and health have raised. One of the meanings of pilgrimage can be associated with the search of balance and harmony between soul and body. The research of spirituality can also be described as the search for a harmonious or unity relationship with oneself, others (including other people, animals, earth, nature) and/or God or the transcendent. Today it is widely accepted that the quest for spirituality is closely related to the research of well-being, that also includes self-improvement and overcoming challenges, especially related to physical activities like walking. This study examines whether pilgrimage can be considered as an essential activity needed to reach a meaningful and healthy life. According to WHO, there are 10 Essential Public Heath Operations (EPHO), involving different dimensions of health, such as physical, mental, social well-being and spiritual. This research looks at the governance of pilgrimage trails as an essential activity given the WHO’s recommendations. Through a series of in-depth interviews with four representatives of pilgrimage sites in Europe, we suggest that pilgrimages, and their associated trails, be understood as essential services and their governance reflect this importance not only for destinations but also for individuals.
Presenters
Maria Angelica Alvarez OrozcoPredoctoral Researcher, History and Art History and Multidisciplinary Tourism Research Laboratory, Universitat de Girona, Girona, Spain Silvia Aulet
Profesora, Universidad de Girona
Details
Presentation Type
Paper Presentation in a Themed Session
Theme
KEYWORDS
RELIGIOUS TOURISM, PILGRIMAGE, GOVERNANCE, WELLBEING
