Developed by the International Institute of Gastronomy, Culture, Arts and Tourism (IGCAT) experts, the European Region of Gastronomy title is awarded to regions as a stimulus to link food, hospitality, tourism, culture, arts, health and sustainability and to support economic, cultural, social and environmental development.
Dr Diane Dodd, President of IGCAT and expert on urban and regional cultural and arts strategies, said that the jury was impressed by the gastronomic strengths of the region and the dedication to sustainability, and with the work already undertaken in the region in this regard. What also impressed them was the wide range of stakeholders taking part in the project. There is also an exceptional ethos and high quality of food production in Slovenia, along with a pride and passion that everyone they met during their visit showed in their appreciation of the land and their capacity for self-sufficiency.
The title will help Slovenia in its quest to become world-renowned as a great green country in terms of gastronomy, sustainable tourism, food education and quality food supply. The award ceremony took place in Brussels on 8 October 2018.