European heritage worth safeguarding

A European Cultural Itinerary

The network of Waldensian and Huguenot Routes were certified as a “Council of Europe Cultural Route”, in 2013.

The Values of the Council of Europe

This hiking trail aims to highlight the historical exile of Huguenots and Waldensians and their gradual integration into their host countries as an important part of our common European history and heritage. It also focuses on the importance of freedom, respect for human rights, tolerance and solidarity as indispensable values for Europe.

A Brief History

“The Waldensian and Huguenot Roads” is a 2000 km long European cultural itinerary which traces the history of the exile of the Waldensians and Huguenots (French Reformed), who in the 1680s were forced to flee from the Waldensian Valleys and from France because of religious persecution. Having been welcomed as refugees in Switzerland and northern Europe after their escape, in 1689 the Waldensians returned to their valleys and regained the right to live there while maintaining their religious denomination.

Travelling today

Today this story of exile starts from Poët Laval in France, and Saluzzo in Italy and extends, via Switzerland (the routes from France and Italy meet in Geneva), to Baden-Württemberg and then Hesse in Germany. Along the way, the Waldensians and Huguenots founded various settlements which are rich hubs cultural heritage, although it cannot be forgotten that they also serve as a modern reminder of the existence of religious persecution, displacement, migration and integration.

For the part of the route linked to the Glorious Repatriation, the itinerary starts in Geneva, and after crossing several Alpine valleys, arrives in Bobbio Pellice – a place which is also the starting point of the initial round-ups and imprisonment of the Waldensians – events which date back to 1686 and which preceded the exile and the Repatriation.

The itinerary includes many cultural and historical attractions, as well as being astonishingly beautiful in parts. Travellers who take the route will experience a wide variety of European culture, discover a shared history, and enjoy convivial moments based on the acceptance of others, while continuing to develop a sense of self-awareness.