Who We Are

Mary's Route is first and foremost a community.

Our network brings together volunteers, local associations, municipalities, cultural institutions, tourism professionals, and international partners who share a common vision: preserving and promoting Europe's cultural heritage while strengthening cooperation across borders.

We believe that cultural routes are living spaces where heritage is experienced rather than simply observed. Through community events, educational programmes, volunteering, and international youth exchanges, we encourage people to engage actively with local traditions, landscapes, and one another.

By connecting people with nature, culture, and local communities, Mary's Route creates opportunities for lifelong learning, intercultural dialogue, and responsible tourism. Every journey contributes not only to the discovery of new places, but also to the preservation of the cultural and natural heritage that makes Europe unique.

World café topics

1. The Fundamental Values of Europe's Shared Cultural Heritage.

Europe's cultural heritage is built on centuries of shared history, traditions, and values that continue to shape our communities today. During this World Café session, participants reflected on how pilgrimage routes, local customs, and cultural landmarks contribute to a common European identity while respecting regional uniqueness. By exchanging personal experiences, young people discovered that heritage is not only preserved in monuments but also through dialogue, hospitality, and active participation.

1. Cultural Diversity and Differences in Europe.

Europe's richness lies in the diversity of its cultures, languages, and traditions. The workshop encouraged participants from different countries to share their customs, beliefs, and everyday experiences, creating an atmosphere of mutual respect and curiosity. Through open conversations, young people recognized that cultural differences are not barriers but opportunities to learn from one another and strengthen international cooperation.

1. Culture as an Attractive Opportunity for Young People.

Culture offers young people meaningful opportunities for personal development, creativity, and international mobility. During the discussion, participants explored how cultural activities—including pilgrimage, volunteering, local traditions, and heritage projects—can foster new skills, friendships, and a stronger sense of belonging. Engaging with culture helps young people become active contributors to their communities while discovering Europe's diverse heritage.

1. Civic Engagement and Social Participation through Culture.

Culture provides an accessible way for young people to become active members of society. Throughout the workshop, participants discussed how volunteering, community initiatives, and cultural events encourage responsibility, solidarity, and cooperation across borders. By taking part in local and international projects, young people can strengthen their civic competences while contributing to the preservation and promotion of Europe's shared cultural heritage.

LIVING LIBRARY SESSIONS

Promoting Cultural Routes and Active Citizenship Among Young People Through Personal Stories and Dialogue

The Living Library session created a unique opportunity for young participants to engage directly with representatives of European Cultural Routes operating in Hungary. 

Through informal conversations and personal stories, participants gained insight into the role of cultural routes in preserving heritage, strengthening local communities, and promoting sustainable tourism. The session also highlighted how young people can become active contributors—as volunteers, participants, and future ambassadors—demonstrating that cultural heritage is best preserved when it is experienced, shared, and passed on to future generations.

Interactive knowledge-sharing workshop with erasmus+ students in a high school

As part of the Erasmus+ programme, Bulgarian participants visited the Piarist Secondary School to engage with Hungarian students during interactive English lessons. Working in small groups, they exchanged ideas about their cultures, traditions, everyday life, and national identities in an open and informal environment. The workshop encouraged intercultural dialogue, improved communication skills, and helped young people discover both the diversity and the shared values that connect European cultures through personal interaction.

Field trip in a small town for photographing cultural heritage sites

During a field visit along Mary's Route, Erasmus+ participants explored a historic town and documented its cultural heritage through photography. By capturing monuments, historic buildings, public spaces, and local landmarks, young people were encouraged to observe their surroundings with greater attention and appreciation. 

The activity strengthened their understanding of the importance of preserving cultural heritage while promoting creative expression, teamwork, and a deeper connection with the places they visited.

Guided Tour Along Mary's Route

During a guided walk along Mary's Route, young participants explored cultural heritage sites while experiencing the principles of sustainable and slow tourism. Walking together encouraged meaningful conversations, a deeper connection with nature, and stronger bonds within the group. 

Along the route, participants photographed and filmed monuments, landscapes, and points of cultural interest, creating digital media that promotes both the heritage of the region and the values of responsible travel. The activity combined outdoor learning, creativity, and intercultural exchange, demonstrating how cultural routes can inspire young people to actively engage with Europe's shared heritage.

Trail Marking – Promoting Sustainable Tourism Through Community Action

As part of the programme, international Erasmus+ participants joined a hands-on trail marking activity along Mary's Route. After receiving practical training, they helped repaint and maintain the official trail markings, contributing directly to the accessibility and long-term sustainability of the route. 

Throughout the activity, participants documented the process through photos and videos, reflected on their experiences, and discussed the importance of volunteering, environmental responsibility, and community engagement. Using the materials they created, the groups later designed a short brochure to promote the route and raise awareness of sustainable tourism and cultural heritage among other young people.

Every journey begins with a single step—but its greatest impact is measured by the connections we create along the way.

Through cultural heritage, sustainable tourism, and active youth participation, Mary's Route inspires young people to discover Europe not only as a destination, but as a shared home rich in history, diversity, and opportunity.