In the‘scope of the “Intelligent Territories” Cluster of Project Habilitas 2024promoted by IILA (Italian International OrganizationLatin American) and supported by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation (DGCS/MAECI), the mayor of Paola, Giovanni Politanowelcomed the Latin American interns. This visit was a‘unique opportunity to explore the historical, cultural and spiritual beauties of the city and to promote roots tourism, with l‘intent on encouraging ever deeper collaboration between‘Italy el‘Latin America.
The training program of the “Intelligent Territories” Cluster is scientifically coordinated by Dr. Alfredo Sguglio, CEO of Smart City Instruments Spin off of the University of Calabriaand partners of‘IILA, who, in his speech at the VI Forum Pymes of IILA in Medellín, passionately outlined Calabria seen in an innovative and far-sighted light. THE‘Sguglio’s objective is in fact to tell a Calabria different from the one commonly perceived and represented‘abroad, where news with a negative connotation often prevails.
Sguglio placed the‘emphasis on how Calabria is already today an “Intelligent Territory,” equipped with extraordinary elements of innovation, the result of local initiatives that leverage the intrinsic potential of the territory and its communities. “Calabria is a laboratory of innovation,” declared Sguglio, “a place where respect for the historical heritage is intertwined with advanced technologies and‘commitment of social networks, giving life to a model of inclusive and sustainable development.” With this vision, Sguglio hopes that Calabria will become not only an example of regeneration and progress, but also a testimony of how‘innovation can be rooted in the traditions and spirit of the community.
In this‘optics gthe interns, coming from eight countries‘Latin America, they explored the historic center of Paola and the Sanctuary of San Francesco, places that embody the city’s deep connection with history and spirituality. Facundo Villar (Argentina), director of the Centro de Investigationsen Turismo, observed how “Paola represents an exemplary model of how a city can transform itself into a cultural and tourist destination without sacrificing its identity.” Sara Teresa Musio Nava (Venezuela), economics analyst, expressed admiration for the way in which “the city manages to integrate its heritage with a modern and sustainability-oriented vision.”
The urban regeneration process of the historic center was presented by mayor Politano as an example of inclusion and territorial valorization. Through the collaboration of local associations and citizens, Paola has given new life to alleys, squares and public spaces, transforming them into places of social aggregation and cultural promotion. Joselyn Carolina López Cruz (Honduras), administrator at Group Constructor Guerra, underlined how “community involvement is the heart of the success of every regeneration project, demonstrating that it is possible to develop without losing the sense of belonging.” Also Freddy Francisco Faundez Campodonico (Chile), CEO of Venti and Director of Climate Action, praised the‘Paola’s participatory approach, calling it “an example of how urban development must serve the community.”
Johanna Monserrat Vasquez Ramón (Dominican Republic), sector analyst at the Ministerio de Economy Planning y Desarrolloappreciated the‘attention placed on roots tourism, stating: “L‘Paola’s initiative in valorising its heritage for cultural tourism makes me imagine a future in which our communities can do the same, keeping alive the links with their traditions.” Also Jesus Miguel Martínez Vizcarra (Peru), engineer in Occupational Safety and Health and the Environment, shared his impressions, stating: “The regeneration of the historic center of Paola demonstrates how safety and sustainability can be an integral part of an urban transformation that respects communities.”
The day ended with refreshments indoors‘open, organized by the inhabitants of the neighborhood to welcome guests with the typical flavors of the Calabrian tradition, in an atmosphere of sharing and cultural exchange. Henry Paul Llumiquinga Loya (Ecuador) expressed gratitude for “the possibility of understanding how the valorization of local heritage can create a tourism model rooted in the‘cultural identity.”
The Dr. Angel MacilettiDirector of International Relations at Smart City Instrumentsconcluded L‘meeting illustrating the objectives of the “Intelligent Territories” Cluster, explaining how it represents a bridge between‘Italy el‘Latin America. The Cluster aims to encourage‘integration and sustainable growth, encouraging‘shared innovation to support the future of the territories, which, just like Paola, can become examples of synergy between tradition and innovation.