I am pleased to announce the L’Eroica Italy cycling weekends exhibition at the European Parliament in Brussels, which will take place this March.

My team and I look forward to welcoming the L’Eroica team and creating a wonderful exhibition for an entire week in the European Parliament building for visitors and members to enjoy.

The idea for this exhibition arose from my own participation in L’Eroica cycling weekends in Italy. Adventure seems too small a word to describe the experience that these events offer. While of course, we cannot bring everyone from the European Parliament to Italy for the week (although it would be a sight to see), we would like to bring a piece of Italy to the European Parliament instead. With heritage tourism and historical cycling at the heart of these weekends, this exhibit will spark interest for visitors and members of the European Parliament, who will see how these cycling weekends go beyond the ability to ride 50 kilometres on white roads. They involve a community spirit that spans all ages and can be carried into new territories. 

Of course, the protection side of heritage and tourism arises – just like different species of plants and culturally listed buildings, the roads and practice of heritage must be equally protected. Preserving these aspects of our tourism and transport sector will ensure the enrichment of communities for generations to come. This goes beyond cycling on the roads; one appreciates the surrounding sights, the comradery of fellow cyclists on the same journey, and rising to the challenge of sportsmanship. You do not have to be a cyclist to take part in the cycling weekends. There is a festival for the entire weekend with market stalls, food trucks, coffee stands, musical performances, and social gathering events. 

The exhibition in the European Parliament will serve as a wonderful opportunity to share this experience with others, and hopefully, transport them to this part of the world for a week. 

I thank the team at L’Eroica for their continuous dedication and energy in organising cycling weekends and surrounding events, creating unforgettable experiences not just in Italy but across the world. Also, I extend my gratitude to the L’Eroica team for their hard work for the cause and for the preservation of cycling heritage. It is an immense honour to host them and support them in keeping the spirit of L’Eroica alive. I commend you on your contribution to tourism as well as to transport, culture and the preservation of your localities. My team and I wish you great sportsmanship and success in the future! 

Here’s to more cycling weekends!

Roberts Zile