REFOOT

REFOOT is a transnational project that will create a hiking trail network retracing the footsteps of Canadian soldiers who liberated Europe during World War II. The project seeks to promote sustainable tourism and preserve the European historical memory while contributing to the development of cultural understanding and remembrance in the North-West Europe area. With 2025 marking the 80th anniversary of the end of the Second World War, a long time has passed since the end of this devastating period in history and with the number of eyewitnesses becoming smaller every year, preserving the memory and educating future generations becomes more relevant. 

Project's goals

The aim of this transnational collaborative project is to bring the attention of a broader public to Canada’s role in the liberation of Europe, which has long been overlooked. Upon completion of the project, the trail will be a tangible connection of landmarks related to the Canadian forces’ involvement in Europe during World War II. The project will connect regions in different countries that were liberated by the Canadian troops and will offer a multi-perspective approach to the remembrance of our shared European history. 

Project's outcomes

The transnational itinerary will provide historical information as well as a cohesive and immersive experience for visitors, which will be made possible through the expertise of each partner in their respective area. This will encourage an increased awareness of the lessons of World War II and its remembrance. Furthermore, the partners aim to foster cultural and sustainable tourism, economic development in the regions involved, social inclusion and an appreciation of European history.