Since UNESCO's global consecration of the concept of Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH), the relationship between ICH and tourism has been marked by contradictions and conflicts. The overwhelming worldwide success of the 2003 Convention for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage has spurred robust activation processes among the so-called ICH bearers, alongside mounting concerns and expectations regarding tourism activities based on ICH amidst the various stakeholders related to it. The presentation will explore the epistemological foundations of the complex, conflicting-but-promising relationship between ICH and tourism, as outlined within the Convention framework and the heritage laws, regulations, and declarations pertaining to ICH in Spain. Drawing upon existing literature on ICH and tourism, as well as relevant case studies from the Valencia region of Spain, where the author possesses years of firsthand experience, the presentation will delve into this topic. Special attention will be given to the cases of the Mystery Play of Elche and the Water Tribunal of the plain of Valencia, both inscribed on UNESCO's Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity and highly exposed to sought and unsought effects of tourism.

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