The course purposes are: - to understand the characteristics of religious tourism and why it is important for contemporary pluralistic societies - to understand the motivations and experiences of religious travellers - to understand how religious tourism is developing and which are the actions to put in place to develop it more, in the framework of sustainable tourism experiences
Course Prerequisites
An appropriate knowledge of the contents and historical aspects of the main religious legal systems is required.
Teaching Methods
The course consists of a total of 50 hours of lectures. Given its experimental and operational character, it will be enriched by the contribution of experts, such as guests from academia, public administration, religious communities and civil society.
Assessment Methods
Students attending lectures are expected to discuss a paper on a topic to be agreed with the professor. The assessment of learning will take into account attendance at lectures, the level of interaction and the adequacy of elaboration and exposition, the correct use of specific terminology as well as the ability to justify, adequately arguing, statements and opinions. For students who do not attend lessons, an oral examination (about texts available online and prepared by teachers). In particular, the ability to refer to the contents of the programme using appropriate and specific language, the argumentative skills and technical-expressive ability will be assessed. The final grade is awarded in thirtieths.
Contents
A first general part will analyze what is religious tourism, the Italian legislation on tourism and religious cultural heritage; the international framework (UNESCO, UNWTO). A second part will examine religious tourism and the theme of sustainability in different religious laws (Canon law, Buddhist, Orthodox, Jewish and Islamic Law). A third part will take into consideration some case studies, for example: religious and cultural routes in the context of sustainable tourism development; the Sacred Mountains of Lombardy. This part will include some study visits (e.g. Sacri Monti in Lombardy and Piedmont) and seminars on some specific themes (smart cities and smart tourism; religious and cultural paths).
Course Language
English
More information
Teachers can prepare personalized plans upon justified request. Meetings with students take place at the end of lessons or by appointment, even via Microsoft Teams.
An extra-curricular summer school on religious tourism will be held in the picturesque tourist area of Orta and Armeno. Orta is home to a sacred mountain, and Armeno hosts the Museum of Innkeepers. The detailed program will be announced later this year.
