The announcement places Castelo Novo among the 32 villages from 18 countries that were distinguished in this edition of the "Best Tourism Villages by UNWTO" and, locally, was received with "enormous satisfaction", by the president of the Fundão Chamber, Paulo Fernandes.

"It is proof of how Castelo Novo and the network of Historic Villages are in a very relevant phase of what is their tourist enhancement and, on the other hand, it is also the testimony of what has been the enhancement of the architectural, natural and cultural heritage of Castelo Novo", he said.

Among the factors that contributed to this choice, Paulo Fernandes also underlined the importance of the mobility project with electric vehicles that is being developed in that village and that promotes environmental sustainability.

Emphasising that this is a "recognition" of the work that has been done, either by local agents, by the network of Historic Villages, or by Fundão City Council, Paulo Fernandes also stressed the relevance of this award to continue to "attract visitors and , above all, to attract new private investments in different areas".




With this distinction, Castelo Novo joins the WTO Global Network of Best Tourist Villages, which was created in 2021 and which, as of this date, brings together 115 villages from five continents.

The initiative is promoted by the World Tourism Organization and distinguishes rural destinations that are adopting tourism as a driver of development and new job opportunities, preserving and promoting community-based values and products.

In addition, it recognises the villages for their commitment to innovation and economic, social, and environmental sustainability.

Castelo Rodrigo (in the municipality of Figueira de Castelo Rodrigo, district of Guarda) and Cumeada (in the municipality of Reguengos de Monsaraz, district of Évora) were the Portuguese towns that received this award in 2021.