“Tourism and spirituality: building the tourism of the future”

Tourism, public health, and well-being can be deeply related concepts, in various possible ways. This chapter explores the link between tourism and spirituality, as a necessary dimension for the well-being of every human being. The work contextualizes the reflections in the current global socio-political scenario, and reaffirms the role of tourism in the creation of a more just, respectful and inclusive society. In this context, the association between spirituality and tourism is introduced and explored by discussing empirical results from studies in the field of tourism and spirituality. Finally, the case study of the city of Rome will be analysed. Can the city that hosts the Vatican be considered an example of a destination where tourism and spirituality are connected? Reflections lead to answers that are not a foregone conclusion.