Abstract
The Alpine regions in the past have been strongly characterized by a common spiritual matrix mainly - but not only - Christian Catholic (an important part of the common European cultural, religious and humanistic heritage according to the Lisbon Treaty). This cultural vivacity linked to spirituality, particularly in the most marginal and remote areas - generated an important widespread cultural heritage composed by small places of worship such as small churches and capitals, but also of meadows, panoramic balconies, peaks, etc. to which people attribute, today as in the past, specific value in relation to their own conception of spirituality. A "minor" cultural heritage that strongly characterises Alpine culture and landscape but which, due to recent depopulation and ageing trends, risks being forgotten and consequently lost due to the lack of adequate care, i.e. maintenance, management and enhancement. A first qualitative-qualitative overview provided by the North-East Italian Dioceses has highlighted the need for a common project to provide a partial solution to this problem with a specific focus on the local social capital, transforming the problem in an opportunity also for a new touristic niche. With this aim, a partnership between private and public actors and religious institutes and bodies is being set up to elaborate and to implement a dedicated European project.