UNESCO Chair in ICT to develop and promote sustainable tourism in World Heritage Sites 

Our Mission

Established in September 2013, USI UNESCO Chair is committed to perform research and teaching on how Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) and digital media in general, can be effectively used to develop and promote sustainable tourism at World Heritage Sites (WHSs).

Conference of the University Network for Cultural Routes

The 2nd International Conference is organized and hosted by the European Institute of Cultural Routes in collaboration with the UNESCO Chair in ICT to develop and promote sustainable tourism in World Heritage Sites of USI – Università della Svizzera italiana, Lugano (Switzerland).

Master in International Tourism

Università della Svizzera italiana offers a Master in International Tourism (MIT), run by the Faculty of Economics in collaboration with the Faculty of Communication Sciences. The USI UNESCO Chair is deeply involved in this Master, through teaching, research, internships and theses opportunities.

Open Access Chapters

We are happy to announce the publication of the Handbook on Heritage, Sustainable Tourism and Digital Media, edited by Silvia De Ascaniis and Lorenzo Cantoni, published by Edward Elgar: https://doi.org/10.4337/9781788970082.

The Holy Week processions of Mendrisio

An online exhibition curated by the UNESCO Chair (USI) presenting the Holy Week processions of Mendrisio, told through the images of heritage photographer Heinz Plenge.

Conference of the University Network for Cultural Routes

The Cultural Routes of the Council of Europe is a long-standing programme that identifies and connects tangible and intangible heritage across borders to promote democracy, human rights, intercultural dialogue and access to culture for all.

USI UNESCO Chair featured in a episode of Moby Dick (RSI)

Last month, an episode of Moby Dick titled “L’eredità invisibile” (invisible heritage) was released. Moby Dick is an audio series produced by RSI (Radiotelevisione svizzera di lingua italiana) that explores major topics such as culture, politics society and economics...

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Exhibition – Francis and the perfect robe

SAVE THE DATE! The exhibition “Francis and the perfect robe – The costumes of Brother Sun, Sister Moon” will be held at Villa Ciani, Lugano, from 4 to 17 October 2026. The exhibition is conceived as an exploration of the profound and complex relationship of Francis of...

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10 years of World Heritage Days

On the weekend of 13 and 14 June 2026, several UNESCO World Heritage sites across Switzerland will open their doors with special programs, inviting visitors to celebrate the country’s natural and cultural treasures. The motto ‘You only want to protect what you know’...

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