On 3 December 2025, Vila Franca de Xira hosted the 3rd MED-Routes Forum, bringing together more than thirty participants at the Quinta Municipal do Sobralinho. Organised by the Municipality of Vila Franca de Xira within the framework of the Cultural Route Destination Napoleon, the event gathered local authorities, tourism professionals and cultural organisations to explore how eco-itineraries can strengthen sustainable cultural tourism in the region.
The Forum opened with welcoming remarks by the host municipality, followed by a comprehensive introduction to the MED-Routes project, its partners, objectives, and methodology. Speakers presented the project’s approach to defining eco-itineraries, alongside two promotional videos that illustrated how the initiative is helping Mediterranean territories reinterpret their cultural and natural assets. The presentation of the MED-Routes Action Plan offered participants a clear overview of the next steps for implementing and expanding this work.
A central moment of the event was the unveiling of two new videos of the eco-itineraries — “Fit & Green” and “Bistrot Spree” — developed under the project. These itineraries exemplify how themes such as outdoor activity, well-being, gastronomy, and local identity can come together to shape meaningful and sustainable visitor experiences across different regions.
Innovation also took centre stage with the demonstration of an interactive 3D computer game created by the Municipality of Vila Franca de Xira. The game digitally recreates historical scenarios from the French Invasions, offering a dynamic, modern tool for cultural interpretation. Participants welcomed this example of how digital technologies can complement eco-itineraries and strengthen educational engagement with heritage.
The Forum culminated in the signing of the Letter of Commitment, through which local stakeholders formally reaffirmed their intention to continue collaborating within the MED-Routes framework. This shared pledge underlines the strong interest of the territory in carrying forward the project’s work and integrating eco-itineraries into wider strategies for sustainable tourism development.
The event concluded with informal exchanges among participants, who discussed the potential of the new tools and itineraries, explored opportunities for cooperation, and reflected on how MED-Routes can continue to support the cultural and environmental vitality of the region.
The Vila Franca de Xira Forum stands as a meaningful step in strengthening the project’s Mediterranean network and in showcasing how cultural routes, digital innovation, and local engagement can work together to enhance sustainable tourism.
