Une mise en tourisme du patrimoine religieux : Le cycle d’expositions Las Edades del Hombre

Abstract

The exhibition cycle Las Edades del Hombre in Castilla y Leon region has been a great success for twenty-five years. A member of the local clergy took the initiative to create these exhibitions with the support of the regional autonomous government. Far from the greatest museums of the country, this project exhibits local churches cultural and religious heritage in religious buildings transformed into ephemeral museums. Through their scenography, these exhibitions invite visitors to reconnect with their Christian roots and revive the collective memory of the regional identity, while teaching religious precepts. Besides, as the project is itinerant, it helps the cities where the event takes place to develop their tourist ressources. This article examines how this particular use of religious works of art creates a new set of identity values through the touristification process.