About the Project
The DANTE project is a European cross-border project co-financed by the European Union under the Interreg VI-A Italy–Slovenia Programme. Its aim is to develop literary tourism based on the cultural heritage of Dante Alighieri, the father of the Italian language and one of the most influential figures in European literature. The project was developed through cooperation between project partners, experts, local communities and cultural institutions from Slovenia and Italy.
The project is based on extensive research that has shed light on Dante’s presence in the Northern Adriatic area, ranging from historical sources and legends to material evidence such as the two Dante codices from Izola, copies of the Comedy. Research confirms that Dante’s legacy is deeply embedded in the cultural memory of the cross-border area between Slovenia and Italy and remains an important part of its identity today.
Building on shared history and literary heritage, the project establishes the DANTE cross-border literary route, connecting significant places, stories, personalities and cultural landmarks associated with Dante’s life, his literary legacy and the broader historical context. The route consists of five thematic itineraries designed according to modern methods of heritage interpretation and storytelling.
The project aims to create a sustainable, slow and culturally rich tourism experience that connects literary heritage, nature and communities across national borders. It promotes the use and visibility of the Slovenian and Italian languages, strengthens cooperation between cultural and tourism stakeholders and contributes to the development of inclusive cultural tourism. In line with the values of the New European Bauhaus initiative, the project introduces innovative and contemporary approaches to heritage interpretation, enabling visitors to experience the shared cultural space in an engaging, accessible and immersive way.
To facilitate exploration of the literary route and enhance the experience of cultural heritage, the DANTE web application was also developed as part of the project. The application provides visitors with access to literary parks, itineraries, stories, points of interest and interpretive content in one place. Through maps, multilingual presentations, interactive content and narratives, users can independently explore individual locations and discover connections between Dante, history and the contemporary cultural landscape. The web application thus complements visits to destinations on site and opens the door to a rich world of stories connecting the shared heritage of Slovenia and Italy.
Among the project’s key results is also the establishment of three visitor centres in Izola, Tolmin and Ceggia, which, together with the web application, form a modern network for interpreting and promoting the shared cultural heritage of the project area.