On Saturday, January 25, as part of the Protone Project, co-financed by the European Union, Arco Forum hosted an intercultural brunch and interactive workshop on the protection of places of worship. The event took place at P.º de la Castellana, 280, Chamartín, Madrid, and was organised in the framework of World Interfaith Harmony Week. The objective of this gathering was to promote dialogue and understanding between different religious and cultural communities, while also reflecting on the protection of places of worship from an interreligious perspective. The session provided a space for participants to share their experiences, discuss challenges, and explore solutions to enhance the security and preservation of spiritual spaces. > Event highlights The event began with an intercultural brunch, allowing attendees to engage in informal discussions and connect with one another before the workshop. The meal set the tone for an atmosphere of inclusivity, respect and exchange of ideas among participants from various backgrounds. During the workshop, young people from diverse religious and cultural communities came together to gather introductory knowledge to serve as advocates for the protection of places of worship in a sensitive way within their respective organisations, communities, and professional networks, and share their insights as well as reinforce their commitment to peaceful coexistence. Through an interactive format, attendees actively participated in discussions that addressed key issues surrounding the protection of places of worship. The session covered the following main topics: Prevention of Islamophobia and ways to combat religious discrimination. The importance of interreligious education as a tool to foster tolerance and mutual respect. The role of social media in shaping narratives and influencing public perceptions of religious communities. Community support and volunteering, emphasising how collective action can positively impact the protection and perception of places of worship. Participants shared personal stories and experiences, highlighting both the challenges and opportunities they face in their efforts to ensure the safety and preservation of religious sites. The workshop facilitated deep dialogues and reflections, encouraging attendees to take an active role in their communities to promote interfaith harmony and solidarity. > Impact and reflections This event proved to be transformative, as it not only fostered meaningful conversations but also strengthened bonds between individuals of different faiths. Attendees left with a renewed sense of responsibility toward advocating for the protection of places of worship and fostering a culture of understanding and empathy. The enthusiasm and participation of the youth were particularly inspiring, as they demonstrated that change begins with knowledge and empathy. Their contributions reaffirmed the significance of education, dialogue and collective action in building a more inclusive and respectful society. > Conclusion The Intercultural Brunch and Workshop on the Protection of Places of Worship successfully fulfilled its mission of bringing together diverse communities to discuss, learn and collaborate on an essential issue. We extend our deepest gratitude to all the participants who contributed their perspectives, ideas and energy to this meaningful event. As we move forward, we remain committed to promoting dialogue, coexistence and the protection of spaces of faith and spirituality. We look forward to continuing this journey and welcoming more individuals to join us in creating a more inclusive and understanding world.