Many hiking and pilgrimage projects in Saxony

There is great interest in state funding for hiking and pilgrimage projects in Saxony. This year, 149 applications were submitted with a total volume of more than 253,000 euros. According to a statement from the Ministry of Culture and Tourism and the Protestant regional church, the participation from all regions and the diversity of project sponsors demonstrate the great importance of this funding for hiking and pilgrimage trails in Saxony.

With a budget of 80,000 euros, 46 projects are being supported - such as rest areas along trails and viewpoints, purchases for pilgrim accommodation or signage and information boards. "Hiking in nature and pilgrimages to places of church life are increasingly proving to be viable forms of spiritual experience," said a delighted Bishop Tobias Bilz about the response. Especially in a relatively secular society, being on the move creates "access to one's own spirituality".

Minister Barbara Klepsch (CDU) is impressed by how diverse and creative people are when it comes to their hiking and pilgrimage trails. She said that every funded initiative also strengthens social cohesion in the regions.

For the President of the State Tourism Association, Stephan Meyer, the large number of applications shows "how high the demand and commitment is in all parts of Saxony". In addition to the funding, training for hiking guides, trail wardens and pilgrim guides as well as regional networking events will also be offered in 2025.