Tourism in religious sites as type of ethnography tourism

This paper aims at examining the relationship between popular devotion and tourism in the case of Catalonia (Spain), which has a diverse religious heritage that often is of interest of tourists. Devotion to the Virgin Mary is clearly rooted in this territory: from churches and shrines to pilgrimages and events, most usually of local and regional significance (popular devotion). This article will explore popular Marian devotion and its links to tourism. Even in the current context, in a largely secularized society, Marian sites remain a major point of attraction, both for devotees and non believers. In these spaces different religious manifestations take place, promises, religious events, special prayers… and especially pilgrimage routes. However, this study will focus on the mise en valeur and communication/scenification of popular devotion core values to tourists and visitors