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• The VII Starlight Meeting brought together more than one hundred experts to discuss astrotourism, its impact on rural development and the preservation of the night sky.

Astrotourism has established itself as a key activity on the Costa da Morte, recently recognized as a Starlight Destination. During the past week, more than a hundred experts and fifty speakers have met in Cee to participate in the VII Starlight Meeting, an event that highlights the importance of astrotourism in the preservation of the night sky and the sustainable development of areas rural.

The Starlight classified territories, monitors, guides and related professionals participated in this meeting to exchange experiences, discuss issues associated with astrotourism and establish guidelines for the future. The vice president of the Galician Tourism Cluster, Jesús Picallo, took part in the event as an assistant.

Antonia Varela, president of the Starlight Foundation, opened the meeting by highlighting that this type of tourism, based on astronomical observation, is not only booming, but also has a strong positive impact on local communities. “Astrotourism is fascinating and transformative, but its long-term sustainability depends on collaboration between public organizations, scientists, companies and residents,” Varela stressed.

For his part, Xosé Merelles, director of Tourism of Galicia, highlighted the community’s commitment to astrotourism as an integral part of its sustainable tourism strategy. “Galicia is a pioneer in the development of this modality, which not only generates economic benefits, but also promotes a deep respect for the natural and cultural environment,” said Merelles, referring to the Starlight recognition granted to Costa da Morte.

The importance of this seal was also underlined by Xosé Regueira, vice president of the Provincial Council of A Coruña, who emphasized that the Starlight recognition is just the beginning. Manuel Muíño, president of the Costa da Morte Tourist Association (CMAT), invited attendees to appreciate the beauty of the night sky and the positive impact that stargazing can have on our daily lives.

This meeting reaffirms the commitment of the Costa da Morte to the preservation of the environment and the promotion of sustainable tourism that fosters the connection between people and the cosmos.