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Huelva Provincial Council presents the AGREE project at the 5th Cultural Routes Managers Meeting
A new Atlantic Cultural Route focused on historic maritime expeditions
The Huelva Provincial Council has presented the European project AGREE – Atlantic Great Explorations at the 5th Meeting of Cultural Routes Managers of the Council of Europe, held in La Rábida. The event brought together international experts to discuss the management, development and promotion of European Cultural Routes.
The project proposes the creation of a new Cultural Route centred on the great maritime expeditions of the Atlantic area.
An Interreg Atlantic Area project co-financed by ERDF
AGREE is led by the Huelva Provincial Council and co-financed by the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) through the Interreg Atlantic Area Programme 2021–2027.
With a total budget of €2.38 million, 75% co-financed by ERDF, the project is implemented by a transnational partnership of 11 organisations from Spain, Portugal, France and Ireland. The University of Huelva participates as a key scientific partner.
Objective: a Council of Europe Cultural Route
The project aims to create an Atlantic network to valorise the major maritime expeditions that shaped European and global history between the 15th and 18th centuries.
Its ultimate goal is to lay the foundations for recognition as a Council of Europe Cultural Route, based on a shared Atlantic heritage.
Huelva and the Atlantic identity
During the presentation, the Atlantic area was highlighted as a shared historical and cultural space. From the Columbian Sites in the province of Huelva to Atlantic towns such as Sines and Lagos, the territory reflects a common identity linked to maritime activity and exploration. A key priority for the Huelva Provincial Council is to highlight the role played by sailors from Huelva in these expeditions.
From heritage to contemporary experiences
AGREE goes beyond historical research and proposes a strategy focused on management, interpretation and public engagement.
The project incorporates innovative tools to connect this heritage with citizens, particularly younger generations. In Huelva, a pilot action will be developed at the Bridge Building in La Rábida. This initiative will present the role of local sailors through a museographic interpretation project, integrating gaming and interactive experiences.
European cooperation and synergies
The presentation of AGREE in this forum reflects the commitment of the Local Development and European Funds Service of the Huelva Provincial Council to position the project within European cooperation networks.
The link with other initiatives was also highlighted, particularly the Iter Vitis Cultural Route, whose Spanish association is chaired by the Provincial Council, enabling synergies and reinforcing transnational collaboration.
A reference forum for Cultural Routes
The 5th Meeting of Cultural Routes Managers of the Council of Europe, organised by the Spanish Ministry of Culture, has established itself as a key platform for:
a) Exchange of experiences
b) Development of cooperation networks
c) Reflection on the role of Cultural Routes in heritage valorisation and territorial development
This year’s edition focused on the importance of research and knowledge networks, a core dimension also addressed by the AGREE project.
