It thus becomes the first European region to receive this award.
This recognition confirms the consolidation of an innovative and regenerative tourism model in which Catalonia's gastronomic revolution has gone beyond restaurants and has opened the doors to discovering the region and its local and unique food production.
The World Gastronomic Region is an initiative promoted by the International Institute of Gastronomy, Culture, Arts, and Tourism (IGCAT). The award aims to highlight and promote those regions that actively contribute to improving the quality of life of their inhabitants through the appreciation of different food cultures, education on health and sustainability, and gastronomic innovation. It is an award that gives credibility to regions as it is given by an independent and international jury made up of experts in various fields such as tourism, culture, hospitality, and agriculture.
In May 2023, an international jury visited various experiences related to food and tourism to experience firsthand the potential of the candidacy.
The jury valued, among other things, the sector's dedication and professionalism and its commitment to constant development. On the other hand, they considered that few places could compare to Catalonia for its first-class cuisine, where the fusion of flavors and the exceptional nature of its products allow for a unique experience. Finally, they stressed that the landscapes are a testimony to the commitment of the Catalan regions to quality, sustainability, tradition and innovation.
New initiatives to position Catalonia as a reference in food and wine will be promoted.
The International World Gastronomic Week, which will take place in the largest cities and countries with a Catalan government delegation, is one of the initiatives. It will include various events, such as marketing and restaurant campaigns, wine tastings, cultural evenings, debates, food and wine experiences, chef exchanges and more.
Another highlight will be the celebration of Àpat Catalunya, a popular dinner party held in some streets and emblematic public places in Barcelona and will offer the most iconic dishes and recipes of Catalan gastronomy. On the other hand, there will be an effort to celebrate the 9th UNTWO Global Conference of Wine Tourism in Catalonia. As Gastronomia Tour 2025, a series of presentations on the main markets for food and wine tourism in Catalonia, aimed at operators, press and opinion leaders with a technological and innovative component, will begin.
According to a press release.
