GPS tracking and mapping of the walking path 'Fiastra Ring'
Objectives: At the 2019 Winter Solstice, Borgofuturo hosted the last stop of “Walking beyond”, a trekking event organised by the university network “Walking Laboratory”. The network involves a group of academic scholars, photographers, artists, and passionate walkers who use walking as a research practice to understand territorial dynamics and changes that took place. On this occasion, participants explored part of the Fiastra Ring, aimed at re-descovering pathways originally used for pastoralism, and were asked to map their landscape perceptions using a digital tool or on paper. After this experience, with the support and collaboration of ARCS Culture Solidali, the Borgofuturo team came up with the idea to create a map displaying the points of interest along the Fiastra Ring walking path, with the contribution of the local community (i.e. associations, local businesses and cultural centres). The map featured a QR code linking to the GPS track of the path, providing an interactive and navigable experience for users.
Results: the project resulted in the creation PDF/JPG downloadable map with several stops on the itinerary (across 6 villages), tracked with GPS and accessible via QR codes and through an existing mobile app (Outdooractive). The map includes symbols with basic services and points of interest (e.g.: banks and pharmacy, accommodation, restaurants, natural and cultural sites, leisure services, etc.). The mapping process enhanced the sense of belonging and recognition in the people involved. A new and updated version of the map is currently under development.
Practical Implications: the solution allows landscape exploration with a low impact on biodiversity. It does not require big infrastructure and avoids the use of fossil-based modes of transport. The mapping was done with low budget, as Borgofuturo could count on the financial and human support of a non-profit organisation: ARCS Culture Solidali.
Empowering rural communities to act for change
Ongoing | 2023-2027
- Main funding source
- Horizon Europe (EU Research and Innovation Programme)
- Geographical location
- Italy, Spain, Germany, Finland, Belgium, Austria, Greece, Croatia, Ireland, Netherlands, Sweden, Cyprus, United Kingdom, Switzerland, Ukraine