Edited and Published by: Bohemian Switzerland P. B. C. České Švýcarsko o. p. s. Křinické náměstí 1169/10 407 46 Krásná Lípa, Czech Republic www.ceskesvycarsko.cz

Content structure and graphic layout was created by Bohemian Switzerland P. B. C. Editorial work: Klára Mrkusová Content text was prepared by responsible project partners.

Photos on front cover (from top to bottom, left to right): 1. Church of St. Nicholas in Bodružal, interior. Photo: Dušan Guzi 2. Church of St. Luke Evangelist in Tročany. Photo: Dušan Guzi 3. Lettnerkreuz in Benedictine Seckau. Photo: Severin Schneider OSB 4. Reformed church of Tiszacsécse. Photo: László Guti

Photos on inner cover (from top to bottom, left to right): 1. Greek Catholic Catedral of St. John the Baptist in Prešov. Photo: Mária Žarnayová 2. Madonna from Chapel of Assumption of Virgin Mary in Česká Kamenice. Photo: Zdeněk Patzelt 3. Reformed church of Vámosoroszi, interior. Photo: László Guti 4. Benedictine Abbey Seckau, interior. Photo: Severin Schneider OSB 5. Fresco in Church of St. Francesco in . Photo: Archive of the Municipality of Casssine 6. Cross in Rynartice in Bohemian Switzerland. Photo:Václav Sojka 7. Christmas nativity scene detail from Šluknov St. Wenceslas Church. Photo: Eva Habel 8. St. Jacob Church in Česká Kamenice. Photo: Zdeněk Patzelt 9. Lipnica Murowana. Photo: Paweł Mierniczak © Thetris, 2013 Thetris Project Brochure 2 Contacts to Thetris project Lead Partner: Association of Municipalities in the Upper-Tisza Area, Hugary www.fehergyarmatkisterseg.hu on behalf of the Lead Partner: THEmatic Transnational Gabriella BIROVECZNÉ OLÁH church Route development [email protected] with the Involvement of local Society on behalf of the External Management Unit - ÉARDA Nonprofit Ltd.: Zsófia MÜNNICH [email protected]

The PDF version of this brochure is possible to download on: www.thetris.eu

This Project is implemented through the CENTRAL EUROPE Programme co-financed by the ERDF. St. Lambrecht, Steiermark Tourismus Schiffer

Regional SWOT analyses of environment and community friendly tourism is focused on tangible and intangible culture seen as opportunity for fostering local development. heritage linked to the regional churches All analyses stress the opportunity offered by the development of a tourism inspired by key words like ‘spirituality’ and ‘nature’. Concerning routes Summary development the different stakeholder underline the Regional SWOT analyses were carried out on the importance for the route which will be implemented basis of four criteria, in order to make analyses in the project to be connected to other thematic and/ comparable. These four criteria were: socio­ or cultural itineraries, like for examples trails, cycling, ‑economic context and entrepreneurship, routes paths and waterways in order to guarantee a higher and location, heritage and preservation, local visibility of the transnational route and to foster tourism identity and commitment. within the areas.

Each partner, on the basis of regional working groups Shortage of public funding for the architectural heritage and of documentary studies, carried out regional preservation is regarded as one of the main threats, SWOT analyses to identify deeper strategies for as well as the occurrence of natural disasters (floods, cultural heritage preservation in the framework of the fires and earthquakes). The economic recession is development of a transnational church route. seen as an influencing factor for which concerns the maintenance of cultural and historical sites. The different analyses point out the richness of cultural and heritage sites (museums, castles, LAMORO Development Agency from Asti, , fortresses, heritage buildings and archaeological project partner responsible for targeted analysis sites), the attractiveness of landscape and local environment, the presence of a strong cultural identity and of lively local traditions (festivals, races, plays, wine­‑and­‑food exhibitions and concerts).

Among weaknesses, regional studies addressed the presence of poor marketing strategies, the difficulties in getting heritage preservation funding and also the lack of local awareness on the importance of promoting regional cultural heritage. Other weaknesses that are relevant for Thetris project are: inadequate tourist information, low quality standard of tourist services, heterogeneity or lack of signposting identifying routes or cultural sites. Also too much local thinking, individualism and lack of networking are counted among weakness as well as the high number of youth leaving their own region in search of better opportunities.

Cultural and tradition based initiatives are seen as Museum by the Church of San Francesco in Cassine. opportunities to be explored and the development Photo: Archives of the Municipality of Cassine 1 Lead Partner 1 Association of Municipalities

in the Upper-Tisza Area Reformed Church of Tiszacsécse outside Hungary Photo: László Guti

www.fehergyarmatkisterseg.hu

Focused area: Upper-Tisza Area renovated from different EU funds; the main problem and Szatmár region is lack of networking, thinking in individualism of both sacred and secular cultural heritage preservation. Regional Working Group has 12 members who Consequently, there is no local tourism destination are experts on regional development of the local office or travel bureau to join force and provide more cultural heritage and provide us with support to make visibility for the cultural sites, to establish church analysis of the target area. There are management of routes, pilgrimage or other tourist routs, altogether Association of Municipalities in the Upper-Tisza Area to raise public awareness of touristic values of the as coordinator; representatives of Fehérgyarmat City region. Due to the high emigration rate causing Council, Jósa András Museum, Szatmári Museum, low number of well-qualified labour force, regional Szabolcs-Szatmár-Bereg County Cultural Institute, knowledge management is absent to better manage Szatmár Leader Non-profit Association, Szatmári heritage sites and develop efficiently preservation and Szőke-Szamos Association, Zombor és Társa Ltd marketing strategies. Being peripheral area together as an expert in protection of historic buildings and the poor quality of roads to reach monuments regional representatives of four religions, as well as result lower number of guests and lower income of local sacred monuments. for municipalities and churches, as well.

Summary analysis Heritage and Preservation SWOT The most and richest religious touristic values of the characteristics county enclosed by waters kept its characteristic image, mood, medieval built values and customs of Strengths the people living here. The small-sized churches • Beautiful sacral monuments built in Gothic style of (some of them were awarded with Europe Nostra the Middle Ages or rebuilt later in the Renaissance Award) and a wooden bell towers, fancy cassette and Baroque, most of all are renovated and listed ceilings, painted galleries and colourful carved monuments pulpit crowns offer the uniqueness of the churches • Other pearls of the cultural heritage are the last active in the region. Additionally, literary and culture water mill of CE in Túristvándi and wonderful castles historic mementoes, beautiful nature offers many built in Classical style e.g. Luby Castle in Nagyar possibilities for relaxation and tourism, e.g. fishing, • Unique areas of natural beauty including nature canoeing or cycle tours. More than ten years ago parks of Szatmár-Beregi Tájvédelmi Körzet, even regularly organized traditional events were launched numerous rivers emphasizing Tisza and Szamos over the region demonstrated the specific non- across the land material cultural heritage. • Regularly organized traditional events demonstrating the authentic regional cuisine and food, also However, most of the historic middle-ages churches traditional art performances and handicraft connected and other cultural heritage have been already with Szatmár hospitality 2 • Hundreds of miles aerial cycle paths of 2 river • Difficulty in obtaining EU funds for actions and/or banks of Tisza and Szamos to approach sacred shortage of resources for heritage protection monuments Regional Church Route Weaknesses For the Regional Church Route seven medieval • Lack of networking, individualistic approach to the churches were selected. Although high percentage sacred cultural heritage preservation of people living in area exercise Reformed religion, • Lack of a local tourism destination office or travel it was very important for RWG that other religious bureau to join force and provide more visibility groups with smaller number of members are also for the cultural sites organizing church routes, represented in the Project Thetris. Consequently, four pilgrimage or other tourist routs Reformed, one Greek Catholic, one Roman Catholic • Due to the high emigration rate regional knowledge and one Lutheran sacred heritage join to create the management is absent Regional Church Route. All monuments can be easily • Being peripheral area together poor quality of roads reached from district centre Fehérgyarmat even on resulting in low number of guests road or via cycle paths on both river banks. • Lack of religious cultural traditions at sacral sites (e.g. celebrations of religious holidays, organ music concerts)

Opportunities • Foundation of a regional tourism destination office allowing enhancement of Szatmár region along with sacral cultural heritage through integrated tourist packages • Strengthening well-qualified labour force allowing the enhancement of marketing • Development of awareness of decision makers and local people in the importance of networking and collaboration • EU financial support for development of infrastructure and cross-border cooperation • Creative revitalization of regional cultural heritage sites through religious cultural festivals and concerts in churches Reformed Church of Tiszacsécse inside Threats Photo: László Guti • Difficulty to establish cooperation between stakeholders to integrate regional tourism including sacral cultural heritage • Possible problems of preservation, i.e. increased costs, unsustainable strategy, excessive individualism due to different aspects, disorganized management • Problems with perceiving the area as tourist destination or even worsening of the regional image – lowering tourism attractiveness

Zsolt Tiba pastor of Reformed Church of Tiszacsécse speaks of Project Thetris: “First of all, our small church community is very proud to be part of Thetris Transnational Church Route across eight European countries. Our village worked for decades to preserve this remarkable Baroque church and now, thanks to the Project Thetris, international marketing provided through being in brochures, maps and website, also signposting on cycle paths and, in addition to it modern audio guide devices are supplied to increase our attendance.”

3 Project Partner 2 Bohemian Switzerland

Public Benefit Corporation Loreto Chapel in Rumburk Czech Republic Photo: Zdeněk Patzelt

www.ceskesvycarsko.cz

Focused area: Bohemian Switzerland • Church paths as relics of older routes connecting and Šluknov region municipalities The region has developed a tradition of specific non- Regional Working Group has 12 members: material cultural heritage (i.e. renewed Easter rides, Independent expert on regional development Nativity scenes made accessible during Christmas - our supplier for analysis of the local cultural and Advent, tradition of manufacturing the Nativity heritage; representative of Bohemian Switzerland scenes). One of the main problems is a long term PBO management; regional experts on religious underfunding of both sacred and secular cultural monuments; representatives from the National heritage preservation. Consequently, the technical Heritage Office Ústí nad Labem - Department of condition of many sights is often poor. Low numbers Conservation Fund; Rumburk Municipal Authority, of worshippers result in lower income for the Church from taxes and donations and a low political demand Building Authority - Department of Monument for the preservation of sacred heritage. Many sacred Protection; Regional Museum of Děčín - a branch buildings are separated from the community life Museum Rumburk; Roman Catholic Parish - deanery and they function purely as a historic sight. On the Rumburk and Diocese Litoměřice. other hand, there are several local initiatives the objective of which is to renew and revive the cultural Summary analysis and religious life. The region is located at the boundary of various cultures (especially Czech, German, Sorbian Heritage and Preservation and Polish) and confessions (especially Roman SWOT characteristics Catholic and Evangelic). Therefore, many specific cultural places are spread throughout the region. Strengths Bohemian Switzerland is also unique because • Rich Modern Age sacred heritage as a result of of a combination of cultural sites and attractive counter-reformation and location (the region is landscape. There are several unique sights of surrounded by Protestant areas, therefore Catholic national or even European importance, e.g.: chapels and churches were built to promote • Architecturally unique pilgrimage Loreto Chapel a Catholicism) in Rumburk • Dense network of parish churches built in the • Concentration of 14 Stations of the Cross located Middle Ages usually extensively rebuilt later in throughout the Šluknov region, including pilgrimage the Renaissance and Baroque style chapels of the Holy Sepulchre • Existence of the Bohemian Switzerland National • Concentration of pilgrimage places in the Šluknov Park, the Elbe Sandstones and the Lusatian Hook aimed at Virgin Mary worship in the region Mountains conservation areas (preservation of of Česká Kamenice the natural but also cultural heritage), proximity of • Many minor sacred sites (crucifixes with iron crosses, the Saxon Switzerland National Park (Sächsische rock niche chapels, conciliation crosses) Schweiz) and the Landscape Park of Lusatian 4 Mountains (Germany- Naturpark Zittauer Gebirge) • Profound tradition of liturgical music in the region, re-discovered works of regional German composers, regional music groups • New traditions in sacred sites (Advent and Christmas concerts, liturgical concerts, festivals of organ music)

Weaknesses • Poor base for regional cultural heritage preservation • Low number of worshippers (therefore low income of the Church collected from believers´ donations and low political demand for sacred heritage preservation) • Low regional socioeconomic status (therefore lower municipal tax base and low willingness of the local inhabitants and businessmen to support the preservation of the regional cultural heritage) • Low financial resources for reconstruction of the St. Wenceslas Church in Srbská Kamenice cultural heritage Photo: Zdeněk Patzelt • Restitutions of former church property • Worsening of the regional image as a result of regional social tensions – lowering its tourism Opportunities attractiveness • Promotion of church entrepreneurship (in • Unsustainable strategy of cultural heritage compliance to church restitutions) as a way of preservation (resources spread over too many increasing utilization of religious sites and raising heritage sites –not sufficient to secure proper money for church heritage preservation preservation) • Increasing the role of the Church within the regional society (could increase willingness of Regional Church Route local inhabitants to take part in sacred heritage For the Regional Church Route our RWG group preservation) proposed to select 6 churches that are not part of an • Strengthening marketing of regional cultural important monument protection or marketing support heritage as an alternative target of tourism (so and are not part of any planned route. They are the far focused on the regional natural heritage) parish churches with original medieval history, and are • EU financial support for cross-border connected with an interesting musical history and living cooperation tradition of Advent and Christmas concerts, religious pilgrimages or issuing Christmas nativity scene: Threats 1. Church of St. Anne in Malá Veleň, Jedlka • Possible problems of the sacred heritage 2. Church od St. George in Chřibská preservation as a result of church restitutions 3. Church of the Holy Trinity in Jiřetín pod under current conditions Jedlovou • Decline of the regional socio-economic status 4. Church of St. Bartholomew in Rumburk (decline of tax income, willingness of the local 5. Church of St. Wenceslas in Šluknov 6. Church of Sts. Simon and Jude in Lipová population and businessmen to contribute to the cultural heritage preservation)

5 Project Partner 3 The Centre for Technology Structure

Development Region Klosterkirche/Monastery church, Riesa Riesa-Großenhain – ZTS GmbH Photo: RIESA INFORMATION Germany

www.zts.de

Focused area: Administrative district Meissen/ Strengths /Administrative district Nordsachsen • Attraction and a multiplicity of well-preserved churches and historic buildings Regional Working Group in Saxony consists of • Unique monuments of cultural heritage about 30 members with a relation to specific tasks (monasteries, cathedrals, etc.) they have to decide together. Although, not involved • Attractive living and recreation areas, close to in every meeting, all working group members economic sites in rural areas – left and right of have the possibility to include their feedback and the river Elbe suggestion, at any time. Members of the Regional • Infrastructure (connection to 4 supraregional railroad Working Group are from different working areas, tracks, federal highways, port on the Elbe) like representatives from the involved counties and communes, church parishes and religious leaders, Weaknesses the regional management or tourist agencies. As the • Tourism is not developed for inhabitants and next steps, local participants, like representatives tourists in rural areas from gastronomy, museums, bakery’s etc. will be • Promotion is focused on well known routes and involved into the process more intensively. sights • Difficult accessibility to rural areas (long distances, Summary analysis lack of information) In the course of great economic policy efforts • Foreign-language/ multilingual information is over the past ten years, the county of Meissen completely lacking takes a leading position among the Saxon district • Lack of signs pointing at the monuments and areas. The economic structure is characterized churches (no guidance system) in about equal parts by the manufacturing and processing industries, agriculture and viniculture as well as tourism. Concentrations of industry and Opportunities trade exist mainly around the five major district • Build-up of networking to connect currently existing towns. Agriculture is particularly dominated by the structures as well as fostering the link between cultivation of fruit and vegetables while the highly religious and touristic concepts regarded and largely known wine of the region • Enhanced communication of regional cultural grows at the northern hillsides of the river Elbe. heritage The surrounding area offers a stunning natural • Use of the high frequented Elbe bicycle route to landscape and a culturally unique ensemble of channel visitors into rural areas and to promote fondly maintained architectural, sacral and natural “jewels” of the region monuments. • Strengthening awareness for religious themes and churches in order to fill existing knowledge gaps Heritage and Preservation SWOT • Emphasize the preservation and revival of church characteristic buildings 6 Threats • Demographic changes (ageing society) • Migration of youth leads to aging of the population structure and therefore to a one-sided development • Deficient perspectives or insufficient offers of „soft locations“(culture, education, leisure offers, etc.)

Regional church route The Regional church route connects Evangelical Lutheran churches, especially in rural areas, from the left and right part of the river Elbe. During the planning stage it was taken into account to combine well surfaced routes which connect unique historical- sacral buildings and local actors. The Regional church route can be used for a one or multiple day trip and offers great benefits to create urgent needed offers for tourism. Both, tourists and inhabitants are heartily invited to experience an impressive view Trinitatis church, Riesa. Photo: RIESA INFORMATION by exploring unique glass ornaments, sandstone figures, carved gold plated and a painted winged altar or stone coffins and grave stones in a very special atmosphere.

Grit Skriewe-Schellenberg, Pastor Ev.-Luth. Church Parish Zeithain about the project THETRIS: „The advantage of the project is in my eyes the construction of cross-linked structures in the region. THETRIS strings together various historic highlights of the region like pearls on a necklace. With information boards, a stamping system and bonus incentives you can also get children and young people to explore. Interesting experiences and wonderful memories can strengthen the love for one‘s own homeland. The project contributes to make cultural heritages of the region publicly more known. The one or other church interior, St. Georgen Church/ St. Georgenkirche, Zabeltitz. Photo: Elbe-Röder-Dreieck e.V. tree or vantage point will become a favourite place. What you love, reserve and honour that‘s what you preserve.“

Harald Pepel, Pastor Ev.-Luth. Church parish Wildenhain-Walda-Bauda and Zabeltitz-Görzig about the Church route: “You are welcome! Our churches are unique stations and each of them will tell you more about the life and times of our ancestors‘ journeying. They are places of contemplation. With this route we invite you cordially to discover the specificity of these places, to remember what is valuable and to gain optimism and strength.”

Interior of the Church in Frauenhain. Photo: Elbe-Röder-Dreieck e.V. 7 Project Partner 4 Regional development agency Interior of Greek Catholic Cathedral of St. John of the Prešov self-governing region the Baptist in Prešov. Photo: Mária Žarnayová Slovak Republic

www.arrpsk.sk

Focused area: Prešov self-governing region parts of Slovakia or abroad. Slovak government gives opportunity to the SMEs with special programs for Regional Working Group consists of 7 representatives them on the market with a financial support. However of municipalities, regional administrative (Prešov and the public funding is still insufficient, prices are rising Košice self-governing region), NGO and Greek Catholic without rising of the quality of services. Investment Church. flow in Prešov region is also very low.

Summary analysis Routes and location Prešov region is located in the north-eastern part The existence of tourist information centres in of Slovakia. It borders with Poland in the North and all major cities in Prešov region helps tourists in Ukraine in the East. In south it share borders with coordinating their visits. In addition to that, the Košice region and in West with Žilina region. Prešov existence of cycling, tourist or pilgrimage routes region is the second largest region in Slovakia and provide a great opportunity for the development the most populated one with the population of cca of tourism and exploring the cultural and natural 800 000 inhabitants. The capital city of the region is heritage of Prešov region. Transport accessibility of Prešov with the population of cca 90 000 inhabitants. the region is an essential factor in the development Natural environment with high forest cover, water of international tourism. Existence of road routes of areas and a large number of historical heritage international importance is an advantage. Cultural and creates diverse possibilities for recreation and historical monuments are relatively well accessible relaxation by tourists. Areas like High Tatra mountains for elderly and handicapped people. They are usually national park, National park Pieniny, historic centers located in the main squares or near constructed of Prešov, Levoča, Bardejov, Kežmarok are filled asphalt driveway. However the infrastructure is far with important cultural monuments, sacral objects from being ideal. Mainly the low class roads in remote and others. Prešov region is also well known for areas are in bad conditions. Poor bus and train a great number of wooden churches and wooden connections also hinder the accessibility. Prešov is architecture located in the area. still missing a highway connection with the capital of Slovakia – Bratislava. SWOT characteristic Socio-economic context and entrepreneurship Heritage and preservation There are two universities in Prešov – the University Prešov region is very rich in cultural and historical of Prešov and the University of International Business. heritage of both tangible and intangible provenience. Fairly high amount of 15% of residents of Prešov Some of the cultural monuments are also on the list region has a university degree, 66% has finished high of UNESCO world heritage, which confirms their school. The biggest problem in the socio-economic uniqueness. Temples are still in use also for liturgical aspect in Prešov region is a very high unemployment ceremonies and thus are not only a tourist attraction rate. This is a long lasting problem in Prešov region, but also a living place in use of local communities. mostly in north-eastern parts. Prešov region suffers Temples chosen for the regional church route went from the outflow of residents looking for work in other through or are in the process of a complex renovation

8 and restoration. However state of the other cultural historical sites may differ according to the economic strength of their owners or administrators. Biggest threat is again an insufficient funding. Temples themselves are not such strong economic assets as to provide enough financial resources to fund necessary needs. Owners mostly turn themselves to financial schemes and grants provided by the government or by European Union funds. Local traditions are still in the minds of the local residents, mostly because of traditional markets that are held annually in many cities and villages. Traditional crafts, food and drinks are being sold and prepared on the spot, legends are being presented by actors which all raises the chances for cultural heritage not to be forgotten.

Local identity and commitment Local decision makers cooperate with any organization that is trying to increase the appreciation Interior of Greek Catholic Wooden Church of St. in Tročany of historical heritage in the eyes of residents, to Photo: Ing. Dušan Guzi preserve the cultural heritage and traditions in the region. Non-profit organizations, public associations Regional Church Route and volunteers mostly in form of pilgrims are also For the Prešov region we have chosen 6 medieval of great help. There is a joint urge in public opinion churches situated through the whole Prešov region which furthers the creation of such associations and (Levoča, Spišské Podhradie, Prešov, Bardejov, their activities. Local residents in Prešov region in Tročany, Bodružal). There are 3 Roman Catholic general feel deeply connected with their cultural churches and 3 Greek Catholic churches in this and historical heritage. Every town or village has selection. Thanks to it we have created a route which its own legends and traditions which are presented leads from the western part to the easternmost parts mostly on social events such as traditional fairs and of the Prešov region. markets. The main obstruction again is the economic situation in Prešov region, low public financing as well as outflow of young people abroad.

Iterior of Greek Catholic Wooden Church of St. Nicholas in Bodružal Photo: Ing. Dusan Guzi 9 Project Partner 5 The Province of Susa, tower and San Giusto cathedral Photo: Archive Fotografico AFPT Andrea Italy Vettoretti Provincia di Torino www.provincia.torino.gov.it

Focused area: cultural and artistic heritage. That together with a rich natural beauty, has made the valley a unique and Regional Working Group consists of actors extraordinary place. Along this important route were belonging to the geographical area of the Susa created hospitals, inns, hotels and important religious Valley many of which are involved in the project buildings. From the point of view of environment and „Treasures of Art and Alpine Culture“. landscape in the Halley one can recognise at least two quite diversified: areas the area of the lower The participants in the regional working group are valley, corresponding to the portion east from Rivoli in • Susa, and the upper valley from Susa that stretches • Municipalities to the closure foothills of the Alps. • Cultural associations • Hospitality and catering operators The two areas had been historically divided: the historic • Polytechnic of Turin boundary between the low and the high valley, in force until 1714, corresponded to the current municipal The aim of Regional Working Group is to promote: boundary between the municipalities of Gravere and Chiomonte: downstream extended the dominion of • Involving the participation of local population Savoy, upstream from the French (Dauphiné). stimulating a sense of belonging in the community The distinctiveness of the cultural landscape of the • Promoting and strengthening the cultural heritage Susa Valley could be seen in the many social and for tourist purposes economic context that coexist together: transit routes, • Developing of a sustainable historical-cultural agriculture, sheep-farming activities, administrative model of tourism, based mainly on religious and and tertiary urban centres, metallurgical industry hiking tourism and manufacturing and winter tourism. The area is • Fostering social integration and distribution of characterized by high territorial disparity among high wealth among local population valley, mid valley and lowland areas. In the high valley there is a well-established tourist industry, as it is evident Summary analysis by the presence of “second homes” hotels and B&B. The Susa Valley has been a central point for connecting Italy with France, through the Monginevro The natural environment and particularly the flora are and Moncenisio passes. The medieval period deeply affected by this natural peculiarity, resulting endorsed its leading role as a gateway between in a valley with extremely variegated and interesting the Italian peninsula and the rest of Europe for sites and habitats. In the Susa Valley there are four merchants, armies, aristocrats, men of Church and natural parks, two natural reserves and many Sites pilgrims. The Susa Valley has been an important of Community Importance (SCI) which host quite a European transit route and across the centuries has few examples of alpine fauna. Notwithstanding the been the witness of important historical moments heavy human presence, the Susa Valley features and has played the role of custodian of an immense wide semi-natural and wild areas.

10 Our purpose is to improve the overall system of hotel accommodation, hospitality, catering and the handicraft products outlets fostering the cooperation among public-private operators.

Heritage and Preservation SWOT characteristics

Strengths • Very rich and important cultural heritage • Good communications (physical and digital) Susa, tower and San Giusto cathedral Photo: Archive Fotografico AFPT Andrea • International visibility (Olympic Games Torino2006) Vettoretti Provincia di Torino Torino2006 no division • Strong local identity

Weaknesses • Crisis of traditional economy • Territorial disparity among high valley/ mid valley

and lowland areas Glimpse of Sant‘Antonio di Ranverso abbey • Difficulty to develop complex cultural strategies Photo: Archive Fotografico AFPT Andrea Vettoretti Provincia di Torino • Tendency to individualism Threats Opportunities • Increasing aging • Growth of opportunities in green jobs and other jobs • Increased job insecurity related to cultural and historical resources • Shortage of resources for heritage protection: • Good prospects of EU supported transport (rail decay of historic monuments developments, e.g. Susa International railway • Increased costs due to individual and disorganized station) management • Access to broadband network (project: Smart • Competition and globalization of markets Susa Valley) • Possibility of access to EU funding Regional Church Route For the route our RWG group proposed to select 4 churches: • Growing interest in cultural and sustainable 1. Preceptory of St. Anthony of Ranverso tourism 2. Sanctuary of St. Michael 3. Cathedral of St. Giusto 4. Abbey of

Novalesa Abbey Photo: Provincial archive 11 Project Partner 6 LAMORO Development Agency Fresco in Church of San Francesco in Cassine Italy Photo Archives of the Municipality of Cassine

www.lamoro.it

Focus area: Bosco , and there are “Artisans of excellence” in the wood and Cassine restoration sector, in addition to artists currently working in the fields of metals and food. Also in the Regional Working Group area of iron, wood and ceramics we find all materials The Regional Working Group was created starting typical of the tradition of craftsmanship. from the active involvement and participation of the Mayors of these three municipalities. Their Heritage and Preservation SWOT participation has allowed us to involve other key characteristic stakeholders as private owners of historical and As for the aspect of cultural heritage and its cultural goods, the Civil Protection which has conservation, the analysis point out the following: important competences in terms of maintenance of cultural and historical sites and the associations Strengths involved in organizing cultural events and exhibitions • Large number of historical monuments at a local level. • The presence of natural reserves and areas of preservation of natural and cultural heritage Summary analysis • Strong local traditions The pilot area includes the territory of three small • Strong territorial identity and a rich mesh of municipalities of the province of , historical, natural and gastronomic routes in Piedmont: Bosco Marengo, Sezzadio and Cassine. Bosco Marengo has a surface of about Weaknesses 44 km2 with a population of 2,550 inhabitants. • High costs of maintenance of the architectural The surface of Sezzadio is about 34 km2 with a heritage sites population of 1,320 inhabitants. Cassine is a town • Accentuated localism of about 3,050 inhabitants, with an area of about • The inability to systematize the different 34 km2. resources

All three municipalities saw the growth of diversified Opportunities manufacturing industries: municipalities have a • A considerable flow of visitors at the Serravalle dedicated industrial area, away from the centre of Outlet (a trading centre with about 5 million of the villages, that is a benefit for the environment visitors per year) and traffic. Agriculture remains the main vocation • Private involvement in the actions of maintenance of the territory. Bosco Marengo is characterized by of historical assets the cultivation of cereals. Sezzadio is experiencing • Growth of cultural tourism in the provincial a shift away from the long tradition of viticulture. territory Cassine confirms a well-established tradition in wine • Possible recognition of the territory as UNESCO and cereal production. Handicraft is quite developed: Area of Interest (World Heritage) 12 • The proximity to the spa town of and the close link between the architectural heritage and the natural heritage

Threats • Progressive shortage of public funds for the maintenance of architectural heritage • Progressive shortage of public funds for the promotion of tangible and intangible heritage

Regional Church Route Bosco Marengo, Sezzadio and Cassine are rich of religious and historical sites. For the Regional Church Route the Regional Working Group proposed to select 3 religious sites:

1. The Monumental Complex in Bosco Marengo 2. The Abbey of Santa Giustina in Sezzadio 3. The Convent of San Francesco in Cassine Church of San Francesco in Cassine Photo Archives of the Municipality of Cassine The Monumental Complex in Bosco Marengo is one of the most significant examples of late 16th century Italian on the occasion of his trip to Italy for the transfer architecture. Just ascended the papal throne in 1566, Pius of the body of S. Augustine. The monastery, as it V. promoted the construction of this Dominican monastery appears today, is formed by the church, a house dedicated to the Holy Cross and All Saints. According and some farm buildings. The church is severe to the intentions of the Pope the building stood as the and suggestive in the forms of the eleventh century, centre of a new city, and the church was also intended with the brick facade interspersed by pilasters and to serve as a tomb for the Pope. The church, one of the arches. The crypt, very impressive, dates back to main monuments of the late Piedmontese Renaissance, the time of Liutprand. reflects the spirit and rigor of Pope Pius V. Also Giorgio Vasari, Italian painter, sculptor, architect and writer of In Cassine we find the Convent of San Francesco, built treatises, contributed to this architectural project. by the Friars Minor Conventual Franciscans who had arrived to Cassine in 1232. The church is one of few The Abbey of Santa Giustina in Sezzadio was significant examples of Gothic Lombard architecture founded by King Liutprand around the year 722 in Piedmont, with Cistercian branches.

Interior of the Church of San Francesco in Cassine Photo: Archives of the Municipality of Cassine 13 Project Partner 7 Diocese Graz-Seckau, Lettnerkreuz Benedictine Abbey Seckau private institution Photo:Severin Schneider OSB Austria

www.katholische-kirche-steiermark.at

Focused area: Obersteiermark West linked to transregional initiatives is missed. Through more awareness raising and networking activities Regional Working Group also supported by IT and Smartphone technologies The participants are public institutions, private persons this situation could be improved towards a common and companies, research institutions, parishes, bottom-up approach in regional and transnational interest groups, infrastructural organisations. strategies for preserving the outstanding cultural heritage of Obersteiermark West. Summary analysis and SWOT characteristic Cultural heritage related to medieval churches can Regional Church Route be found throughout our focus area as well four It is important to mention that the region is traditional pilgrimage routes that are well known and extraordinary rich in intangible cultural heritage attract many people from all over Europe. Tourism related to medieval literature and handicraft. Our in winter as well as in the summer season is very church route has six “points of interest” and it is well developed and structured. The most important possible to reach each of our six highlights by strength concerning the presevation of cultural public transport, car, bike or pilgrimage. Along our heritage is still the commitment of local people, route, two impressive benedictine abbies and four that are proud of their cultural roots and keep alive smaller churches with precious artworks that date their customs and traditions. The cultural heritage from medieval times are presented to the visitors in of a community is not just a building or a church and a beautiful mountainous surrounding. The Abbey of the treasures contained therein. First and foremost, Seckau contains the so-called Lettnerkreuz (Lettner it finds its expression in the current life of the parish: is a style of architecture in a church that separates in celebration of the liturgy and church festivals, the nave and the sanctuary, like an iconostasis). events and in meetings. The crucifix in Seckau is the oldest and last known Lettnergroup in German speaking area. The Abbey The key for successful and sustainable preservation of in St. Lambrecht can be understood of tangible and intangible cultural heritage lies though as a total artwork itself, as a silent witness of the in the active involvement of the young generation, that importance und influence of the abbey in the evolution unfortunately is migrating to bigger cities due to better of art in Austria. The pilgrimage church Maria Buch professional perspectives. The high migration rate is is one of the oldest pilgrimage places in Styria. The one of the hardest challenges the regional community red ribbed gothic vault gives the interior an excellent has to deal with. Although there are many small medieval ambiance. The church of Saint George/ businesses, there are not enough jobs for citizens Judenburg was probably built in the first half of the with higher education. Various associations are active 13th century as a typical Romanesque church with in the cultural field (choirs, brass bands, traditional a tower above the choir. The mural arts of Saint music from the Alps etc.) but often their focus on local Georg were made in the transitional phase of the initiatives is too strong so that the possibility to be late Romanesque style and the early gothic 14 style, called Zackenstil. Including an interesting iconographical program these mural arts are one of the most significant artworks in Styria and the magnum opus of early Zackenstil in Austria. For the local population these churches and highlights of our route are symbolizing the history of their belief - closely linked with art and culture and their own identity that should be preserved.

St. Lambrecht Photo: Steiermark Tourismus Schiffer

Monastery garden of Abbey of Saint Lambert Photo: P. Gerwig Romirer

15 Project Partner 8 Association of Communes The Cemetery Church of the Visitation of the Blessed Virgin Mary in Iwkowa and Cities of Małopolska Region Photo: Paweł Mierniczak Poland

www.sgpm.krakow.pl

Focused area: Małopolska region Strengths • Unique interior paintings of the wooden churches Regional Working Group • Wealth, internal consistency and uniqueness of Our Regional Working Group has 10 members the cultural landscape, which the churches on the who are experts on cultural tourism, regional route partially contribute to development, non-governmental organizations, • Very well-preserved original fittings of the churches self-government and church representatives. They on the route are active participants in project activites interested • Active character of regional folk and artistic in successful project implementation. groups There are management of Association of Communes • Numerous festivals, reviews, fairs, fêtes, etc., and Cities of Małopolska Region as coordinator; during which folk art is promoted representatives of Institute of Culture at Jagiellonian Univeristy, Małopolska Tourism Organisation, Weaknesses representatives of 8 municipalites and 11 sacral • Councillors not very active in the planning and monuments from the region. implementation of regional conservation objectives of the cultural heritage sites Summary analysis • Low public awareness about the value of cultural Małopolska is the region with the highest number heritage of historical sites in Poland, the birthplace of Polish • Lack of concept of complementary long-term culture, a place that fosters traditions and possesses revitalisation and restoration of historic towns in varied natural endowments. The Wooden Architecture the region Route that links wooden architecture sacral tresures is • In most cases, poor management of historic a unique initiative for the protection of the world made buildings (based only on intuition rather than of wood in Małopolska Region. What is important for its knowledge and best practices) sustainable development is that the objects on the route are located in sub-regions which are diverse in terms Opportunities of tourist traffic, development of tourist infrastructure, • The existence of entities in the region to ensure range of cultural offer, density of road network, the access to the latest solutions in the field of cultural number of public transport connections, the number of heritage protection year-round tourist and leisure centres. However, what • Considerable significance of regional cultural they have in common is a large number of high quality heritage for the development of tourist industry monuments, abundant folklore and folk culture, the • Robust network of parishes and other church richness of cultural and natural landscape. organisations generating strong ties and social relations Heritage and Preservation • Emerging initiatives aimed at promoting SWOT characteristics contemporary artists and scientists undertaking 16 the subject of cultural heritage, its importance and protection in their work

Threats • Lack of a coherent, complementary system of information on cultural events in Małopolska • Lack of national and local social and information campaigns concerning the significance of cultural heritage issues and the importance of its protection for the formation of own cultural identity • Insufficient promotion of good practices on the positive role of citizens in protecting and appropriate ­use of cultural heritage • Diversified and complex ownership structure of works of art and listed sites • Lack of social integration and coordination in the protection, promotion and management of cultural heritage The interior of the Cemetery Church of the Visitation of the Blessed Virgin Mary in Iwkowa Regional Church Route Photo: Kamil Bieńkowski For the Regional Church Route 9 middle-ages churches were selected: • The Parish Church of St. Michael the Archangel in Binarowa (UNESCO) • The Parish Church of St. Michael the Archangel in Dębno Podhalańskie (UNESCO) • An auxiliary church of St. Martin in Grywałd • The Parish Church of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary in Harklowa • The Cemetery Church of the Visitation of the Blessed Virgin Mary in Iwkowa • The Church Of St. Leonard in Lipnica Murowana (UNESCO) • The Parish Church of Holy Trinity in Łopuszna • The Parish Church of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary in Rajbrot • The Filial Church of St. Philip and James in Sękowa (UNESCO)

The Małopolska region wooden log construction churches selected for the THETRIS project stand out due to their unique artistic and historic value, a high degree of authenticity, excellence of carpentry and a wealth of authentic furnishings. The oldest temples Dębno Podhalanskie are from the 15th century, four of them feature on the Photo: Paweł Mierniczak UNESCO World Heritage List.

Kazimierz Barczyk, president of Association of Communes speaks of Project Thetris: „THETRIS project is a great opportunity for Małopolska to boast of a rich culture of our region. Wooden churches in Małopolska are an integral part of cultural identity and pride of people living here. Since many years, we are working hard to promote the objects linked within Wooden Architecture Route, launched in 1998 by the Association Communes and Cities of Małopolska Region. We are pleased that the THETRIS project gives us the opportunity to show off our treasures, to share our experience and to become part of an international group of partners working to protect and promote our common European heritage.” 17 Project Partner 9 Scientific Research Centre of the Campanile of the church of Virgin of the Snow Slovenian Academy of Sciences and in Nadavče. Photo: Špela Ledinek Lozej Arts, Research Centre Nova Gorica Slovenia

www.zrc-sazu.si

Focus area: Goriška region tourist offer at regional and transnational levels. The opportunities lie in strong ties with the Italian Regional Working Group region of Friuli Venezia Giulia, better marketing of Beside the members of the project working group at the rich cultural heritage in connection with preserved the Research Centre Nova Gorica regional working landscape, (international) tourist valorisation and group consists of the representatives of the Goriška inclusion of churches and monasteries with great Museum, the Institute for the Protection of Cultural historical and artistic importance in the holistic Heritage of Slovenia, the University of Ljubljana, local regional tourist offer and in collaboration between tourist associations and interest groups, and above the Institute for the Protection of Cultural Heritage all of the parish priests and monks responsible for the of Slovenia and the Commission for Sacral Art of churches, included in the regional church route. the Diocese of Koper-Capodistria and priests. The threats are identified in periodic inundations and Summary analysis and SWOT characteristic earthquakes, mistrust of the directives of the Institute ZRC SAZU, Research Centre Nova Gorica focuses for the Protection of Cultural Heritage of Slovenia, on the regional analysis and forming of the thematic insufficient consciousness of the importance of the church route in the Goriška region. cultural heritage and in lack of cooperation and The regional analysis focuses on the Goriška connections between municipalities. statistical region and has been developed on the basis of the study of regional problematics, the interviews Regional Church Route with stakeholders, the bibliography (strategies, The Goriška regional church route between the Julian programmes, etc.) and the discussion with the Alps and the Karst, alongside the Soča river and the stakeholders at the regional working group meetings. Vipava river is composed of 14 pilgrimage churches The regional SWOT analysis points out strengths, dedicated to the Holy Virgin Mary: weaknesses, opportunities and threats of the regional 1. Church of Virgin Mary of Loreto in Trenta (parish cultural heritage valorisation and conservation. The Soča) strengths are in diverse tourist attractions from 2. Church of Virgin Mary in Bovec (parish Bovec) Alpine regions to Mediterranean landscape, rich and 3. Church of the Name of Mary on Mengore heterogeneous cultural heritage, numerous churches (parish Volče) 4. Church of the Name of Mary in Marijino Celje and monasteries with great historical and artistic (parish Lig) importance, well-known heritage of the First World 5. Church of Virgin Mary of the Snow in Nadavče War, well-educated people, multicultural collaboration (parish Avče) and tolerance tradition. The weaknesses are in 6. Church of Virgin Mary in Vrhovlje (parish lack of extensive direct investments, inter-regional Kojsko) disparities in terms of economic development, lack 7. Basilica of Mary Mother of God on Sveta Gora of connections between the private and public sector (Franciscan monastery Sveta Gora) and ineffective and unconnected marketing of the 8. Church of the Annunciation on Kostanjevica 18 (Franciscan monastery Kostanjevica, parish Nova Gorica – Kapela) 9. Church of Our Lady of Sorrows on Mirenski Grad (Lazarist monastery Mirenski Grad, parish Miren) 10. Church of Immaculate Virgin Mary in Gradišče (parish Renče) 11. Church of the Assumption of Virgin Mary in Vitovlje (parish Osek) 12. Church of Our Lady of Consolation in Log (parish Vipava) 13. Church of Virgin Mary of the Snow on Obelunec (parish Goče) 14. Church of Virgin Mary of Oberšljan (parish Komen)

Presbytery of the church of Virgin of the Snow in Nadavče Photo: Špela Ledinek Lozej

Church of the Name of Mary on the mountain of Mengore The Holy Family altar with the picture of Tone Kralj, church of the Name of Photo: Špela Ledinek Lozej Mary on the mountain of Mengore. Photo: Špela Ledinek Lozej

Jože Mikuš, priest of the parishes Avče and Ročinj says: „In the past the church of Virgin Mary of the Snow used to be a very popular and famous pilgrimage place. People from close and distant places came to the church especially on the 5th August, the day of Virgin Mary of the Snow. Lately, it has become the pilgrimage centre of local importance. Certainly, the signpost, implemented in the THETRIS project, would inform the visitors of the importance of the sanctuary, and I hope, that they would be also encouraged to go on a pilgrimage to the place, to which our ancestors pilgrimed with such a belief!“

19 Project Partner 10 Business Support Centre Ltd, Kranj Church of the Annuncition Velesovo Slovenia Photo: Janko Dermastja, source: TIC Cerklje

www.bsc-kranj.si

Focus area: Gorenjska region lie also in developing new touristic offer that would present reach sacral, rural heritage and attractions, Regional Working Group in vivid, innovative way. Members are: • Local tourism organizations Of course, region is also aware of threats that are • Tourist Information Centres connected to further deepening of crisis due to the • Representatives of local communities worsening of socio-economic situation with closing • Expertise of cultural heritage down of working places, followed by outflow – migration • Representatives of parish of young educated people from the countryside, less development opportunities to further develop tourist Summary analysis and SWOT characteristic offer in rural areas and less public or private funds The whole region Gorenjska, which lies in the to maintain reach heritage in the region. northwest of Slovenia, bordering on Austria and Italy, has reach sacral heritage and is crossed with important Regional Church Route pilgrimige routes. Most of the sacral heritage is well Our church route connects 8 beautiful Roman preserved, due to strong commitment of local people Catholic churches in rural area of 8 local communities to their sacral heritage as well as smaller support in one of the parts of region Gorenjska, which is from donors and public funds. Additionally region less known for tourists and less developed. All has rich natural, cultural attractions and heritage churches have important cultural heritage value and vivid cultural life of rural settlements. Beside 5 most of them are marked with legends and strong bigger cities in the region all the rest is countryside pilgrimage history. They all offer outstanding views with almost 50 % under Natura 2000. of surrounding mountains and most of them are easily accessible by car or a shorter walk. Some Due to more than 70 % of mountain or hilly areas with of them are also connected with already existing mostly limited options for bigger earnings in farming, pilgrimage or touristic trails that connect churches most of the people are looking for employment nearby and smaller settlements and can be visited opportunities in bigger settlements nearby or in on foot or by car. smaller businesses in the villages. Due to the change of lifestyle some traditional ties and values in the 1. Church of the Annunciation, Velesovo villages are weakening and new modern values that 2. Church of St. Radegunda, Srednja vas demand different approaches to development are 3. Church of St. Lawrence, Bašelj going stronger. 4. Old church of St. Oswald, Jezersko 5. Church of St.Urh, Žiganja vas There is strong commitment of the region to develop 6. Church of Mary Help of Christians, Ljubno tourism offer also in those parts of the region which 7. Fortified Tabor Church, Podbrezje are less known for tourists. Therefore opportunities 8. Church of St. Primus and Felician, Jamnik 20 Fortified Tabor Church, Podbrezje Church of St.Urh in Ziganja vas Photo: Dragica Perne, source: Municipality of Naklo Photo: archive TPIC Tržic

Eva Štravs Podlogar, director of regional destination organisation,Turizem Bled: „Gorenjska has beside 2 very strong pilgri- mage centers Brezje and Bled, that attract pilgrimers for centuries, a lot of valuable, attractive but not so known churches and monastaries. Church route represents a key stone to further develop tourism offer in Gorenjska region.“

Slavko Kalan, prist, Adergas: „Church Velesovo and convict (samostan) Adergas is important sacral monument with strong history. We are proud that project THETRIS will enable us to be part of the transnational route.“ Church of St.Urh in Žiganja vas. Photo: archive TPIC Tržič

21 Project Partner 11 Province of Padova Italy Correzzola - Benedictine Court www.provincia.padova.it Photo: Archivio Provincia di Padova

Focus area: Province of Padova the other hand, we restrict the number of strategic religious places to those who have been affected by Regional Working Group the Rule of the Benedictines and are the object of Province of Padova represents institutions that play a the present research, the heritage to be preserved key role for the regional and tourism development both comes down to 22 landmarks targeted by the in the public and the private sector. Experts from the present project. national and the regional government were invited to join the RWG, among them the Padova Chapter of The preservation of the monuments of religious the National Commission for the Cultural and Artistic heritage is primarily left to several stakeholders, Heritage and the Veneto Region. From the private representing the whole world of the religious devotion. sector the RWG was joined by the Italian National We have basically the Franciscans, friars who rule Trust (FAI), the Association of Hotel Owners, the over the most important religious destination in Syndicate of Thermal Hotels, the Regional Agency Padova, the Saint Anthony Basilica, which is also Veneto Innovazione, and the Tourist Board. As far as territory of the Vatican State, the Benedictines, the the church authorities are concerned, stakeholders monks who rule over the Saint Justine Abbey whose are the Padova Diocese, St. Justine Abbey and power used to affect large parts of the provincial Praglia Abbey. As the Correzzola court is the Town territory (Praglia Abbey and Correzzola are part of Hall, we invited a representative of the Municipality. that historical background), the Diocese which counts These last institutions represent the connection 400 parishes stretching over the boundaries of four between the project idea and its implementation different provinces. within the targeted area on historical religious sites owned by the monks. Within this complex framework, funding the preservation of churches has been very challenging. Summary analysis Protecting the large cultural heritage of the Heritage and Preservation Provincial Province is a big challenge. If, for SWOT characteristics example, we take into consideration the surface of the Padova Diocese, it extends on an area of Strengths 3,297 sqkms which is larger by a third than the • Cultural and landmark diversity (wilderness, Padova province itself. The Padova Diocese, which historical buildings, churches, museums) encompasses part of Treviso, Vicenza, Belluno, • Festivals and events throughout the year and Venice provinces, is made of 460 parishes • Open Days at most of the historic locations and a large number of monasteries, convents, • UNESCO Site – the Padova University Botanical hermitages. The Bishop jurisdiction stretches over Gardens 800 religious buildings and 105.000 art artefacts • Free guided tours all year round such as altar cloths, paintings, frescoes, etc.. If, on 22 Weaknesses • Lack of funds for the restauration of works of arts and landmarks • Renovation works take long time • Marketing to be improved

Opportunities • Increase volunteering at monuments • Organise art classes and children workshops at museums • Increase the cultural fund-raising and self financing

Correzzola - Benedictine Court • Adopt a positive attitude to the internationalization Photo: Archivio Provincia di Padova of the heritage • Employ young art students as guides • Ameliorate digital marketing tools

Threats • Low awareness of art as a economic opportunity Basilica St. Giustina. Photo: Archivio storico Azienda • Inadequate language knowledge Turismo Padova, F. e M. Danesin/Zilli 1. Padova, Chiesa di San Benedetto Abate Regional Church Route 2. Legnaro, Corte benedettina e Chiesetta di Province of Padova – Thetris Church Route – The Volparo Benedictine Order way. 3. Arzerello di Piove di Sacco, Santuario del Along the Thetris Church Route, from the south of the Cristo province of Padova, Correzzola, to the Euganean hills, 4. Piove di Sacco: Santuario della Madonna delle Praglia, we can cross the region and see the different Grazie, chiesetta di S. Nicolò, Duomo, chiesa di landscapes. Thanks to this itinerary we may focus three S. Francesco important points of this area: Benedictine order, with 5. Candiana, Duomo di San Michele their essential mediaval „ora et labora“, bicycle (cycle 6. Terrassa Padovana, Santuario B.V. della path available) , that permits a slow visit of this territory, Misericordia and water, as the route follows the main waterways of 7. Due Carrare, vAbbazia di Carrara S. Stefano the province, a basic element for Padova for its rise 8. Torreglia, Eremo di “Monte Rua” and development, and for wellness, too (SPA). 9. Luvigliano di Torreglia, Chiesa parrocchiale e Villa dei Vescovi The three main points of the church route are 2 10. Monteortone di Abano Terme, Santuario Medieval churches and one court that are related to Assunzione B.V. Maria (con grotta della fonte the history of the benedictine order. The churches, miracolosa) ed ex-convento one in Padova and one in Praglia, are property of the 11. Abano Terme, Duomo Albignasego, Cappella Benedictine monks who still live and use the premises degli Obizzi nella Chiesa parrocchiale di S. for religious purposes whereas the Correzzola court Tommaso is now owned by the Municipality. Half of the building 12. Salboro in Padova, Chiesa di S. Michele di was turned into a hostel and is operated by a private Pozzoveggiani entrepreneur, the remaining part is the seat of the community offices.

Near the route, as alternative way and following ordinary roads, we can visits other fascinating churches and court that have been affected by the Rule of the Benedictines:

23 Central Europe map with project parters site ThetrisProject Project Partners Brochure 2

Lead Partner 1 / Association of Minicipalities Project Partner 2 / Bohemian Switzerland, P. B. C. Project Partner 3 / The Centre for Technology in the Upper-Tisza Area Structure Developement

Project Partner 4 / Regional developement Project Partner 5 / The Province of Turin Project Partner 6 / LAMORO Development Agency agency of the Prešov

Project Partner 7 / Diocese Craz-Seckau Project Partner 8 / Association of Communes Project Partner 9 / Scientific Research Centre and Cities of Małopolska Region of the Slovenian Academy of Sciences and Arts, Research Centre Nova Gorica

Project Partner 10 / Bussiness Support Centre Ltd. Project Partner 11 / Province of Padova