The Rome conference underscored that these programs are not framed as conventional sightseeing packages. Instead, they are positioned as immersive experiences that connect travelers with places of worship, early Christian heritage, Islamic civilizational landmarks, and multi-layered cultural landscapes shaped by centuries of coexistence and exchange. The organizers highlighted the intention to serve a broad spectrum of demand, from traditional pilgrims and church-oriented groups to culturally motivated travelers seeking meaning, reflection, and context-rich storytelling.
A central element of the planned routes is the careful selection of destinations that embody the depth and diversity of Türkiye’s spiritual geography. Cappadocia, with its rock-cut churches and monastic spaces carved into volcanic formations, is frequently referenced as a flagship example of how natural landscapes and devotional life intersect. Pamukkale is presented not only for its internationally recognizable scenery but also for its surrounding heritage layers that reinforce the “nature plus culture plus memory” concept at the heart of the program. İznik is highlighted for its historical connection to the Council of Nicaea (325), a milestone event in early Christianity that continues to resonate for faith-based and academic visitors alike.
The itineraries also incorporate Ephesus, a globally significant archaeological site that is regularly associated in public interpretation with early Christian history and pilgrimage interest, including the nearby tradition linked to the House of the Virgin Mary. Antioch (Antakya), long recognized for its religious pluralism and ancient urban continuity, is included to reinforce the message that Türkiye’s faith heritage is multi-confessional and historically layered rather than limited to a single tradition or period. In addition, the concept extends beyond the best-known circuits, referencing the potential of the Black Sea region and southeastern provinces as part of a more comprehensive national faith tourism map—an approach that can help diversify flows beyond established mass-tourism hubs.
Institutional cooperation was presented as a key credibility factor. The conference itself was organized through collaboration between L’Opera Romana Pellegrinaggi, a Vatican-affiliated organization specializing in pilgrimage travel, and the Culture and Promotion Counsellorship of the Turkish Embassy in Rome. This alignment signals not only marketing intent but also an effort to build trust and structured channels with organizations that shape pilgrimage mobility, group travel logistics, and religious travel programming across multiple origin markets.
The forum also included high-level participation that framed the initiative within a broader narrative of cultural diplomacy and inter-cultural encounter. Reports from Turkish and international coverage note the presence and remarks of Cardinal Baldassare Reina, the vicar general of Pope Leo XIV, who referenced Türkiye’s religious heritage in positive terms, reinforcing the event’s positioning within a dialogue-friendly, heritage-forward tone.
Looking ahead to 2026, Türkiye’s strategic bet is that faith tourism can be both a growth segment and a reputational lever: encouraging longer stays, off-season travel, and higher-value cultural consumption, while showcasing the country’s historic role in the development of religious traditions and intercultural exchange. If implemented with strong interpretation standards, community-sensitive visitor management, and coherent international distribution through specialized operators, the new routes could enhance Türkiye’s competitiveness in the expanding market for experiential, meaning-driven travel that blends spirituality with heritage and living culture.
