VALORIZZAZIONE TURISTICA DEL PATRIMONIO UNESCO E FERROVIE DISMESSE: IL CASO DEL “TRENO DEL SACRO MONTE”

The paper analyses the relationship between tourism and transport through an integrated approach linking cultural heritage and mobility infrastructure. It focuses on the Sacred Mountains of Piedmont and Lombardy, where religion, art, culture and nature are closely interconnected. From a transport perspective, the study examines the heritage of Italy’s disused railways and their potential for restoration. It highlights how railway reactivation can foster territorial regeneration and enhance cultural, environmental and tourism value. The case study of the Novara–Varallo railway is analysed through the experience of the “Sacro Monte Train.” This initiative demonstrates how reusing disused railways for tourism can support local development. It also promotes the mountain area of Varallo and its UNESCO-recognised Sacred Mountain.