04.12.2024 | 23:20

2024 Best Villages: 2 Spanish destinations chosen by UN Tourism

27 November, 2024

Up to 55 villages from all regions of the world make up the “2024 Best Villages” list, an initiative launched by UN Tourism in 2021 to promote tourism in rural areas, preserving landscapes, cultural diversity, local values and culinary traditions.

The fourth edition of this call has received 260 applications from more than 60 member states of the organisation. Two Spaniards are among those chosen: Ainsa (Huesca) and Mura (Barcelona), among the five candidates from Spain who applied. In addition, another 20 municipalities have been chosen to join the “Upgrade Programme”, including Pals (Girona).

“Tourism is an essential tool for inclusion, empowering rural communities to protect and value their rich cultural heritage while driving sustainable development,” says UN Tourism Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili. The Best Tourism Villages initiative is part of the organisation’s Rural Development Programme.