Vrsar amaretti, an authentic delicacy of the local gastronomic and intangible cultural heritage, were presented at the 18th International Conference for Cultural Tourism in Europe, organised by European Cultural Tourism Network (ECTN), held from 1 to 4 October 2025 in Sibiu, Romania.
The ECTN conference brings together experts in cultural tourism, heritage, gastronomy, and sustainable development from across Europe and serves as a platform for the exchange of knowledge, experience, and best practices in the valorisation of cultural resources through tourism. Particular emphasis is placed on authentic local products and their role in shaping distinctive and sustainable tourism destinations.
Within the conference programme, the project “Amaretti di Orsera – a traditional hazelnut delicacy inspired by local heritage,” based on the revitalisation of Vrsar amaretti, was presented in the category Wine and Gastronomy Tourism based on eno-culinary heritage preservation. This category recognises projects that innovatively and sustainably connect eno-gastronomy, cultural heritage, and tourism.
As part of the conference programme, a professional lecture dedicated to Vrsar amaretti was delivered, highlighting the process of their revitalisation, the historical value of the original recipe, and the manner in which this traditional product has been integrated into the contemporary tourism offer. Special emphasis was placed on preserving authenticity, local ingredients, and traditional knowledge, while simultaneously generating added value for the destination of Vrsar.
Participation in the ECTN conference and the presentation of Vrsar amaretti at the European level confirm their importance as a best practice example in the valorisation of intangible cultural heritage through gastronomy. The project was awarded third prize in the Wine and Gastronomy category within the ECTN Awards, further positioning Vrsar as a destination that successfully integrates tradition, identity, and tourism.
This international recognition represents a strong incentive for further activities aimed at the preservation, promotion, and development of Vrsar amaretti, as well as for strengthening their role within the cultural and gastronomic identity of Vrsar and Istria.
