Antônio Prado and Linha Bonita, in the Serra Gaúcha, are among the eight Brazilian destinations nominated for the UN Tourism “Best Tourist Villages” award. The award recognizes places that value tourism tradition and promote sustainable development.
Created in 2021, the award is an initiative of the United Nations Tourism Organization (UN Tourism) and seeks to highlight villages around the world that use tourism as a tool for well-being and prosperity, always aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
In total, eight Brazilian villages were selected. Of these, only two will advance to the final stage, in November, in Saudi Arabia.
The winning villages will receive the good practices seal and will be part of the international “Best Tourist Villages” network, which has 254 members.
Two Representatives from Rio Grande do Sul
The two representatives from Rio Grande do Sul have strong ties to Italian immigration. Antônio Prado and Linha Bonita stand out for preserving the culture, history, and rural way of life of the families who arrived in southern Brazil in the late 19th century.
Antônio Prado was founded in 1886 and is considered the last official colony of Italian immigrants in the state. The municipality has just over 13,000 inhabitants and houses 48 buildings listed by the National Institute of Historic and Artistic Heritage (IPHAN).
In addition, it offers attractions such as the Municipal Museum, the Francescatto Mill, and the Historic Center.
The city has a temperate climate and a landscape that combines hills, valleys, rivers, and fruit plantations such as grapes, pitaya, prickly pear, and peaches. The best-known events are Fenamassa, which celebrates local cuisine, and Italian Night, with music and wine.
Linha Bonita: A Living Tradition in Gramado
Linha Bonita is a rural locality in the municipality of Gramado. Also founded by Italian immigrants in the late 19th century, the village preserves its roots through the descendants of the founding families.
With old mansions, narrow roads, and plenty of nature, the place offers tours focused on the region’s culture and history.
Since the 1980s, the residents themselves have been receiving tourists and sharing local traditions. For Gramado’s mayor, Nestor Tissot, the nomination is an important recognition.
“This shows the world that rural tourism, done with truth, care, and respect for the community, is an example of sustainability and social transformation,” he said.
The final result of the UN award will be announced between November 7 and 11, during the UN Tourism General Assembly.
Source: en.clickpetroleoegas.com.br