The Diputación de Cuenca recently wrapped up its sixth participation in the renowned Madrid Fusión gastronomic fair, attracting nearly 24,000 visitors over three vibrant days. This event not only showcased the culinary delights of the region but also highlighted the importance of gastronomy in boosting tourism.
Mayte Megía, the deputy for Heritage, Fairs, and Tourism, expressed her enthusiasm for the event's success, emphasizing that beyond the impressive visitor numbers, the goal was to establish Cuenca as a key player in one of the country's most significant culinary events. The regional government is committed to leveraging gastronomy as a driving force for tourism, a sector that plays a crucial role in the region's economy.
Recent data indicates an 8.5% increase in rural tourism within the province, with 86,062 travelers visiting Cuenca, further validating the Diputación's efforts. Megía reiterated the commitment to collaborate with local chefs, promoting events that showcase the high-quality cuisine available in every corner of the province.
During the fair, thirteen top chefs from the Castilla-La Mancha Chef Association conducted live cooking demonstrations, delighting a continually engaged audience at the Cuenca stand. These showcookings were complemented by tastings of local agro-food products, presented by the Appac organization under the 'Donde Nacen los Sabores' brand. This collaboration introduced the 'Elige Cuenca' project, a perfect blend of gastronomy, local products, and tourism.