Italian cuisine and rural tourism: Trichilo, 'a way of life'

Italian cuisine and rural tourism: Trichilo, 'a way of life'

Italy's ambassador to Zagreb, Paolo Trichilo, spoke at the 7th International Congress on Rural Tourism on the island of Arbe, stressing that Italian cuisine is a cultural heritage that goes beyond mere gastronomy. He cited the recent UNESCO recognition of “Italian cuisine, between sustainability and biocultural diversity” and emphasized the importance of convivial traditions in promoting local territories.

Trichilo linked the Italian cuisine brand to economic opportunities for export and tourism, focusing on rural areas, typical products and short supply chains. He also referenced emblematic figures such as Pellegrino Artusi and the significance of the Mediterranean Diet as a shared lifestyle model across countries in the region.

• Event: 7th International Congress on Rural Tourism, island of Arbe.
• Themes: UNESCO recognition, sustainability, rural tourism, local products.
• Related visits: memorial at the Kampor concentration camp, the monastery of Saint Euphemia, and participation in Pula's 20th anniversary of the Italian honorary consulate.

The central message highlighted the need to view cuisine not only as a gastronomic resource but as a cultural and economic lever to support rural development.