Via Querinissima is an international initiative that has grown out of Pietro Querini's journey and account. In 2022, the international cultural association Via Querinissima was established with the aim of having this historic journey recognized as a European Cultural Route by the Council of Europe.
The route follows Querini's journey from Crete to Røst and on to Venice, highlighting the connections between north and south in Europe through shared history, landscape and cultural traditions.
The itinerary connects locations in Greece, Italy, France, Spain, Portugal, the UK and Norway, and includes coastal towns, historic ports and cultural institutions. Through this route, a story of survival, hospitality and cultural exchange is conveyed – values that are central to both Querini’s account and modern collaboration.
The Via Querinissima association currently consists of members from a number of European countries and represents a diversity of actors, from cultural institutions and educational environments to municipalities, counties, tourism organizations and local communities. The association works to strengthen the understanding of our common European heritage and promote values such as dialogue, respect and cultural exchange. At the same time, it emphasizes sustainable and regenerative forms of tourism, where consideration for the environment and local roots go hand in hand with the dissemination of a common European identity.
Nordland County Library is an active and formal partner in Via Querinissima, contributing its experience and its social mission, which is based on openness, knowledge sharing and community. The library has initiated several measures that strengthen the route both locally and internationally, including the development of an international library network and the hospitality symposium, with hospitality as a recurring theme.
The story of Pietro Querini has a special place in the hearts of the locals on Røst. The tale of the Venetian merchant who washed ashore on the island in 1432 has over the years become a living part of Røst's identity, and has inspired a number of local initiatives that communicate the story further – through art, culture and community.
One of the most striking expressions of this commitment is the Querini opera. The opera has helped to promote the story both locally and internationally, and has strengthened Røst's role as a cultural mediator.
In addition, Røst has developed Querini Literary Landscape, a project that invites visitors to experience the island's nature and history through literary traces and reflections. The landscape connects narrative, place and experience, and provides space for wonder and insight into Querini's encounter with the coastal community.
Querini Days is an annual event where locals, artists and visitors gather for conversations, performances and a celebration of history. The event has emerged as an important arena for local pride and international cultural exchange, and is part of the wider collaboration associated with Via Querinissima.
As a physical hub for culture and community, Røst has also established Querinihallen, a multi-purpose hall named after the historic guest. The hall is used for sports, concerts and events, and symbolizes how Querini's history has become an integral part of the life of the local community.
Through these initiatives, Røst shows how local roots and historical storytelling can go hand in hand. Querini’s story is not just a part of the past – it is a living inspiration for community, hospitality and cultural curiosity, and an example of how local communities can take ownership of their own history and make it relevant for new generations.