Percorsi mariani in Abruzzo. Memoria storica e prospettiva di valorizzazione

The rediscovery of authentic places expressed by a post-industrial culture is encouraging - among others factors - the revival of the so-called "cultural" routes and their use through slow travels. Amongst these latter ones, religious journeys (in particular Marian paths) play a central role. Although in the Abruzzi there are no sanctuaries of significant extra-regional interest, it is nevertheless a land strongly marked by traces, architectures and routes connected with the figure of Mary. It is actually demonstrated by the numerous cultural buildings which are dedicated to Her and situated along the streets of transhumance. Any systematic evaluation of their presence would nowadays ensure attention upon territory by those enjoying authentic travels. At the same time, it would re-enhance a tangible and intangible heritage which very often threatens to disappear.