Slavic Immigration and the Tourism Potential of Irati (PR, Brazil)

Abstract

This article analyzes the influence of Polish and Ukrainian immigration in the municipality of Irati, Paraná (Brazil), focusing on the formation of a cultural heritage with tourism potential. The research discusses how identity elements inherited from these groups — such as churches, religious festivals, folk groups, and community spaces — can be incorporated into the development of cultural and religious tourism in the region. Using a qualitative approach based on bibliographic review, document analysis, and field observation, the study identifies the main attractions linked to Slavic heritage and evaluates the presence of public policies targeting the sector. The results show that, although Irati has significant cultural resources related to Slavic immigration, local tourism remains underdeveloped due to the lack of integrated planning, insufficient infrastructure, and weak governmental action. It is concluded that strengthening identity-based tourism, combined with the appreciation of cultural traditions, represents a viable strategy for promoting sustainable development and preserving historical memory in the municipality.