NEXT ROUTES Project: A Complete Toolkit for the Digital Transformation of Cultural Routes

The NEXT ROUTES project has successfully reached its conclusion, delivering an innovative set of tools and methodologies designed to support the digital transformation of Cultural Routes.

The project’s final event took place at Laboratorio Aperto in  Forlì (Italy), bringing together Cultural Routes operators, heritage professionals, and digital innovation experts. The conference provided a platform to showcase the project’s objectives, achievements, and the tangible results produced throughout its duration.

A highlight of the event was the presentation of the NEXT ROUTES Digital Toolkit: a comprehensive resource featuring no-code solutions for creating interactive content, immersive narratives, mobile apps, and digital guides for cultural heritage sites. These tools are designed to be accessible, user-friendly, and adaptable, enabling cultural organisations to engage new audiences while safeguarding the authenticity and educational value of their heritage.

Collaboration and Dialogue

The event concluded with interactive discussions among cultural operators, institutional representatives, tourism professionals, and members of the public. Together, they explored collaborative strategies for enhancing heritage communication and audience development, reflecting the project’s commitment to participatory and sustainable approaches.

Project Objectives and Achievements

Over its lifetime, NEXT ROUTES has pursued three main objectives:

  • Supporting Cultural Routes of the Council of Europe in their digital transition.
  • Enhancing audience engagement by introducing playful, interactive, and inclusive formats.
  • Preserving cultural authenticity while making heritage more accessible through innovative digital storytelling.

Through training sessions, workshops, and co-creation activities, the project has empowered cultural operators with the skills and tools necessary to experiment with gamification, immersive experiences, and digital guides, ensuring that Cultural Routes remain vibrant, attractive, and relevant in a digital age.

Looking Ahead

NEXT ROUTES leaves behind a valuable legacy: a tested and replicable digital toolkit that strengthens the capacity of Cultural Routes and heritage organisations to connect with diverse audiences. By bridging tradition with innovation, the project has contributed to shaping the future of cultural heritage communication in Europe.

Be curious and take a look at:

NextRoutes page

The YouTube Channel

The new Game!