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In recent years, the United Nations World Tourism Organization has drawn attention away from bustling megacities to celebrate fifty-five towns and small cities worldwide. The goal is to inspire tourism that respects the environment, supports local communities, and disperses visitors to lesser-known places with lower pollution and smaller crowds.
The collection highlights rural destinations that boast accredited cultural and natural treasures, a strong commitment to sustainable practices, and a clear focus on preserving social values. Innovation and responsibility are central themes, emphasizing how communities can thrive while safeguarding their heritage and landscapes.
Among the list, the only Spanish town is Sigüenza, located in Castile-La Mancha. Its inclusion is largely due to the Barranco del Río Dulce Natural Park and a historic cathedral dating from the twelfth century, which together symbolize the area’s deep cultural and natural appeal.
Located north of Guadalajara, this region has been inhabited since the Paleolithic era. Its strategic location between the Upper Henares and the valleys of the Dulce and Salado rivers adds to its charm. Visitors can enjoy a mix of reflecting gastronomy and architecture, with strands of Renaissance and Baroque art weaving through the local towns.
Another noteworthy destination from the list lies very close to the Catalan region. It is celebrated for its cultural heritage and features two prominent festivals: a traditional Fallas-style celebration and the Sant Pere festival. The area also holds artistic treasures and is bordered by the Vall de Sorteny Natural Park, offering a blend of culture and nature that resonates with travelers seeking authentic experiences.
These towns illustrate how small, thoughtfully preserved communities can become compelling travel destinations. They demonstrate a model of tourism where visitors experience genuine local life while supporting preservation efforts, sustainable development, and the protection of unique landscapes. The emphasis remains on responsible travel as a pathway to benefit residents, protect ecosystems, and maintain cultural integrity for future generations.
For travelers exploring options beyond major capitals, the UNWTO list serves as a practical guide to discovering hidden gems—places where scenery, history, and hospitality come together to create memorable journeys. The message is clear: sustainable tourism can flourish when communities, visitors, and authorities collaborate to keep destinations vibrant, welcoming, and resilient in the face of change.