GOOD PRACTICES COLLECTION
THETRIS PROJECT
WP3.3.2
WPC: PP6 - LAMORO Local Development Agency
“This project is implemented through the CENTRAL EUROPE Programme co-financed by the ERDF”
1 Table of Contents
LP – Association of Municipalities in the Upper-Tisza Area (Hungary) ...... 4
„The route of medieval churches in Szabolcs-Szatmár-Bereg and Szatmár counties” ...... 4
„Szatmár by bike” ...... 6
„The way of Szatmár legends” ...... 8
PP2 – Bohemian Switzerland, Benefit Corporation (Czech Republic) ...... 11
„For the life of churches of the Broumov region” ...... 11
„Open Gates of the Zlín region” ...... 13
„Via Sacra” ...... 14
„House on the hill, Rumburk” ...... 16
„Rumburk Loreto” ...... 17
PP3 – The Centre for Technology, Structure Development Region (Germany) ...... 19
„Church Bicycle Route” ...... 19
„Creation of an event from the museum Riesa (and involvement of local actors, e.g. church parish Riesa-Gröba)” ...... 20
„Conversion of an empty barn to a parish hall in Wildenhain - Church Barn Wildenhain” ...... 22
PP4 – Regional development agency of Presov (Slovak Republic) ...... 25
„Open-air wooden churches museum” ...... 25
„St. Elizabeths cathedral, Košice” ...... 26
„International wooden route (PL-SK)”...... 28
PP5 – The Province of Turin (Italy) ...... 31
„Dai beni faro alla valorizzazione del sistema dei beni ambientali e culturali nelle Alte Valli” ...... 31
„Valle Susa Card” ...... 32
„Via Francigena Valle di Susa” ...... 34
2 PP6 – LAMORO Development Agency (Italy) ...... 36
„Valorisation of the Monumental Complex of Bosco Marengo” ...... 36
„Valorization of the Monumental Complex of St. Francis's church (Town of Cassine, commune of the Province of Alessandria)” ...... 37
„Valorization of the Romanesque Abbey of Santa Giustina di Sezzadio (Town of Sezzadio, commune of the Province of Alessandria)” ...... 39
PP7 – Diocese Graz-Seckau (Austria) ...... 41
„Heaven and wood - the theme route of Holzwelt ("woodworld") Murau” ...... 41
„Domenico” ...... 42
„Exposure and restoration of wall and ceiling paintings from the 13th Century of St. Georgen / Judenburg” ...... 44
PP8 – Association of Communes and Cities of Małopolska Region (Poland) ...... 46
„The "Shield" project” ...... 46
„Open Wooden Architecture Route” ...... 47
„The Great Ruin - rebuilding project" ...... 49
PP9 – Scientific Research Centre Nova Gorica (Slovenia) ...... 51
„The pilgrimage and spiritual centre of Sveta Gora – the holly mountain ” Pillar: ‘ACCESSIBILITY’ ... 51
„Renovation of the medieval Church Complex of Saint Valentine on the mountain Sabotin” Pillar: ‘CHURCHES AND HERITAGE PRESERVATION STRATEGIES’ ...... 53
„POVEZOVALNAPOT TREHSVETIŠČ – The linking road of the three sanctuaries” Pillar: ‘COMPETITIVENESS AND ENTREPRENEURSHIP’ ...... 55
PP11 – Province of Padova (Italy) ...... 58
„Valorization of the Benedictine Court of Correzzola (Padova)” ...... 58
„ Benedictine Abbey of Santa Giustina” ...... 60
„Valorization of the Benedictine Abbey of Parglia” ...... 61
3 LP – Association of Municipalities in the Upper-Tisza Area (Hungary)
„The route of medieval churches in Szabolcs-Szatmár-Bereg and Szatmár counties”
Area Identification Information
Area: Szabolcs-Szatmár-Bereg County (5.936 km2)/ Szatmár county (367.281 km2) Population: 588.000 people/ 367.281 people Number of Churches (the number of concerned churches): 20 pc/ 10 pc
Detailed description of the Good Practice:
Szatmár region, to the area that hides several treasure for the tourists. This area bordered by waters preserved its unique atmosphere and medieval buildings. As a consequence of the poverty and isolation special architecture styles evolved here that can be seen especially on churches. he route titled „The route of medieval churches in Szabolcs-Szatmár-Bereg and Szatm|r counties” presents its visitors with its outstanding religious and cultural heritage with twenty churches in Szabolcs-Szatmár- Bereg and ten churches in Szatmár county. Since both of these counties consider their cultural, architectural heritage an outstanding public value a common harmonized development program was worked out for the sake of protection and promotion. The medieval churches are in the center of the program since these are unique treasures of the area.
Objectives:
• The aim of the development was to trace out a thematic route of medieval churches in the Hungarian-Romanian border area, which was the first common thematic route of Szabolcs- Szatmár-Bereg and Satu Mare counties. • The popularization of the region’s cultural heritage on this side of the border and beyond the border. • Conservation of the history and nature values, preservation of cultural and spiritual heritage, preservation of the folk traditions in this area.
Target groups:
• Churches and municipality of this region • The tourism organisations in the region: Travel and tourist information offices, accommodations, catering business and other organizations which deal with supplementary services • Inland and foreign tourists (1000-5000 person), who will receive program packages from long weekend program to two-week program. • The residents of the region (100000-150000 person): The quality of the residence is improved by the increase of attractiveness of region, job opportunities increase; the residents will obtain additional income. • The region’s young people (10-15000 person): It is important that the region must be shown in detail to young people.
4 Elements of sustainability:
Since during the project establishments will not be constructed which would be extra cost, therefore, the financial sustainability is ensured.
Actions implemented:
Project preparation activities: contacts, situation analysis, and preparation of tender documents Project management: Project preparation, preparation of reports, project closure, monitoring, and evaluation Communication activities:, conferences in the settlements, inform the tourist organizations, , inform the website, professional consultation, professionals involvement Marketing activities: brochures and publications, tourist mapping, preparation and development of website, tourist information boards Situation analysis and clarification of strategic trends: The mapping of the tourism values’ inventory, opportunities and development ideas in the region. The fully development of the thematic routes and the program packages linked to thematic routes is preceded by the data collection.
Achieved results:
Completed tender documents Contracts concluded Prepared reports Professional consultations Local information forums Informational forums of tourism organizations Brochures and publications, tourist maps Website Tourist information boards Joint inventory of tourism values and exploratory study, which includes the history of the churches and heritage
Timing:
Start of the project 01.12. 2009 End of the project 31. 05. 2011
Added value at a local level:
Followed by a series of broad negotiation of experts the church route was traced out according to a recommendation based on a consensus in the historical area of Satu Mare County. Several organizations participated in the negotiations to assure a professional ground for the designation of the thematic route. The Cultural and Heritage Protection Agency, the Tourinform, the Jósa András Museum, the Szatmár Reformed Church Diocese, the parishes alongside the route, the Szatmár Leader Kht., the Szabolcs-Szatmár-Bereg County Regional Development and Environment Management Agency, the Szabolcs-Szatmár-Bereg County Self-Government, the Satu Mare County Museum, the Satu Mare County Roman Catholic Diocese, the Satu Mare County Orthodox Diocese, the Cultural and Religious Directorate and the Satu Mare County Council all took part in the negotations. Besides these organizations tourism, art, regional development and marketing experts took part in the job of
5 assuring the consideration of the heritage protection and touristic aspects of the designation of the route.
Are there elements of transferability at a transnational level?
The tourism development project titled “The route of medieval churches in Szabolcs-Szatmár-Bereg and Satu Mare Counties” was executed in a co-finance of the Hungarian-Romanian Cross Border Cooperation Program 2007-2013 the Szabolcs-Szatmár-Bereg County Self-Government as a leading partner and the Satu Mare County Council as a project partner in 2009-2011. The project goes beyond the Hungary's borders; it doesn’t take account of the geographical units and the country’s borders. The project has developed an inventory of tourism values may be further expanded in the future. This extension can extend the whole European Union and as a result of extension may develop Joint the route of medieval churches in the European Union.
Contact details (please provide contact details of a reference person for the Good Practice):
Regional Development and Environmental Management Agency Non-profit Ltd. Deák Attila Telephone number.: +36 42/508-357 e-mail: [email protected]
„Szatmár by bike”
Area Identification Information
Area: Settlements of the Upper-Tisza Multipurpose Small Region Association (703km2) Population: 39 374 person Number of Churches: 52
Detailed description of the Good Practice:
The development and linking of the cycle paths implemented on the dams is high tourism potential of the region. The beautiful churches, the floodplain forests, river bathing, cultural, historical and natural heritage and gastronomy of this area provide good opportunities for the development of rural tourism. The forming of the cycle path will be widespread impact on the rural population in the Hungarian- Romanian border: The rural tourism begins to develop in the small region. The tourists begin to inquire about the other tourist attractions of the region (e.g. churches). The forming of the cycle paths, start of cycling and water tourism will be a high tourism potential of this region. Strengthening of Rural Tourism increase the opportunities the possibility of access to the income in this region. The quantity and quality of investment, vulnerabilities of the applications will increase. The caterings linked to the cycle oaths provide new jobs. The formation of the rest areas, campgrounds and hotels is expected in this region.
Objectives:
During a few days cycling trip the can get acquainted with the area's tourist attractions, cultural, historical and natural heritage and churches.
6 Linking of cities and villages beside the dam by bike path Creation of the new traffic contact between the two countries The development of the rural tourism provides new spots opportunities for the tourists and the population of this region.
Target groups:
Municipality of Szatm|r’s settlements Inland and foreign tourists (1000-5000 people): During the bicycle tour we can scrape acquaintance with the region’s sight. The residents of the region (100000-150000 person): The bike path allows the population of the region to go by bike roll skates and wheelchair.
Elements of sustainability:
Since during the project establishments will not be constructed which would be extra cost, therefore, the financial sustainability is ensured.
Actions implemented:
Project preparation activities: contacts, situation analysis Project management: Project preparation, preparation of reports, project closure, monitoring, and evaluation Communication activities: conferences in the settlements, inform the tourist organizations, inform the website Marketing activities: brochures and publications, tourist mapping, preparation and development of website, tourist information board
Achieved results:
Completed tender documents Contracts concluded Prepared reports Local information forums Informational forums of tourism organizations Brochures and publications, tourist maps Development of cycle path Tourist information boards
Timing:
Start of the project 1st January 2010 End of the project 31st December 2013
Added value at a local level:
The project will allow us to increase the region’s tourism potential by the development and linking of the cycle paths and to boost rural tourism. During the bike trip the tourists can get acquainted with
7 Szatm|r’s natural values, beautiful churches, the village's history and ethnographic values, cultural values and architectural.
Are there elements of transferability at a transnational level?
During the project the human relationship is reanimated between the Hungarian and the Romanian settlements. The cycle path may be part of the tourism network, which intersects the border at several places, and it will contribute to the development of the direct contact between the people living on the two sides of border.
Contact details:
Local Government of Fehérgyarmat Rajnai Gáborné Telephone number.: +36-44-510-236 email: [email protected]
„The way of Szatmár legends”
Area Identification Information
Area: Settlements of Szatmár Leader Nonprofit Association (1263 km2)/Szatmár county (4.419 km2) Population: 8311 people 367.281 people Number of Churches: 30 pc
Detailed description of the Good Practice:
The management of Szatm|r region’s tourism is high priority task. In addition to the historic and natural landscapes, churches and historic buildings, the beautiful rivers and wetlands the presentation of myths is important for tourists. During the project we plan to explore the legends of Szatm|r’s typical towns and cultural heritage linked to churches and to prepare the marketing materials, which include the various publications, commercials, creation of web site, preparation of information boards (description of the legend of the settlements, the descriptions of the main tourist sights).
Objectives:
Increase of Szatm|r region’s tourism potential and international recognition Working of complex tourism program package in the Szatmár region and preparation of program package’s marketing instruments
Direct target groups:
Churches and municipality of Szatm|r’s settlements: The settlements appear in the regional marketing instruments by this means their recognition and attractions increase.
8 The tourism organisations in the region: Travel and tourist information offices, accommodations, catering business and other organizations which deal with supplementary services Inland and foreign tourists (1000-5000 person), who will receive program packages from long weekend program to two-week program.
Indirect target groups:
The residents of the region (100000-150000 person): The quality of the residence is improved by the increase of attractiveness of region, job opportunities increase; the residents will obtain additional income. The region’s young people (10-15000 person): It is important that the region must be shown in detail to young people. Guide books and audio books are supplied to the local schools in order to young people will be familiar with their region.
Elements of sustainability:
During the implementation of the project a database is created which only needs to be updated and re- created in the maintenance period.
Actions implemented:
Project preparation activities: contacts, situation analysis, and preparation of tender documents Project management: Project preparation, preparation of reports, project closure, monitoring, and evaluation Communication activities: opening conference, conferences in the settlements, inform the tourist organizations, the final conference, inform the website Marketing activities: brochures and publications, tourist mapping, preparation of audio books, road movie, travel guides, preparation and development of website, tourist information boards Situation analysis and clarification of strategic trends: The mapping of the tourism values’ inventory, opportunities and development ideas in the region. The fully development of the thematic routes and the program packages linked to thematic routes is preceded by the data collection. So as to be more meaningful the thematic roads, the goal is the exploration of the cultural, historical and natural heritages and the improving of existing knowledge.
Achieved results:
Completed tender documents Contracts concluded Prepared reports Opening and closing conference Local information forums Informational forums of tourism organizations Brochures and publications, tourist maps Audio book, road movie, guidebooks Website Tourist information boards Joint inventory of tourism values and exploratory study, which includes the cultural, historical and natural heritages, the history of the churches and historic buildings
9 Timing:
Start of the project 01.10.2010
End of the project 31.03.201
Added value at a local level:
We will have an opportunity that based on the existing values to increase the region’s tourism potential. We don’t base the presentation of the usual cultural and historical places but these values are grouped around the legends which arouse the interest at international level. At the level of the developing marketing methods not simply appearances are happened, but we are moving along a complex package and during the design of marketing new, innovative methods are used (audio CD, community training, development of personal experience).The project respond to the needs of the less developed and more developed settlements at the same time, because it contains elements from the data collection to international communication .In the local information events the preparation of settlements take place for the opportunities of tourism. The pack, which is grouped around the legends will be viable if the local people feel it ownership.
Are there elements of transferability at a transnational level?
This project contributes to the objectives of the ÚMFT (New Hungary Rural Development Program) Regional Operational Programmes: the increase of the tourism attractive of regions, mitigation of within the region social and regional differences; and it contributes to the actions of the New Hungary Rural Development Program: heritage preservation, renovation and development of villages, creation and development of micro-enterprises, encouragement of tourism activities. The project goes beyond the Hungary's borders; it doesn’t take account of the geographical units and the country’s borders. The project has developed an inventory of tourism values may be further expanded in the future. This extension can extend the whole European Union and as a result of extension may develop a Joint European Union value inventory.
Contact details:
Szatmár Leader Non-profit Association Bíró Zoltán Telephone number: +36-44/375-038 e-mail: [email protected]
10
PP2 – Bohemian Switzerland, Benefit Corporation (Czech Republic)
This chapter gives examples of best practice. Subject to the assignment of the study we give 5 examples of good practices according to the following key points:
Competitiveness and entrepreneurship (marketing strategies related to the religious and cultural routes) – Via Sacra; Accessibility (transport, site accessibility) - Open gates of the Zlín region, House on the hill; Strategy of the preservation of sacred sites (programmes, plans and models of reconstruction, conservation, sight administration related to the Church) – For the life of the churches in the Broumov region, Rumurk Loreto.
Good practices comply with the requirements of the general methodology of the THETRIS project, developed for regions situated in the reference area nearby the interested area. Since it is difficult to identify examples of good practice for the given topics, the area of the whole Czech Republic ad the closest Polish and German borderland is considered as a reference territorial unit. Areas with similar social-economic profile, history and landscape were of preference.
„For the life of churches of the Broumov region”
The project was set up in 2012. The Broumov region is located in the North East Bohemia and its cultural, landscape and social character is similar to that of Bohemian Switzerland. The objective of the project is to reconstruct 10 Baroque churches of the so called “Broumov group of churches” and to restore a centre of religious and spiritual life here which was interrupted in the late 20th century. Therefore, the revitalization is a complex project including not only reconstructions, but also activities towards creative and effective use of reconstructed buildings. The Broumov group of churches are architectural landmarks in the relevant towns and villages and they should start playing an important role in the cultural and community life again. Diverse use of reconstructed churches should also foster sustainability of its reconstruction results by generating additional funding and attention to their maintenance.
The Roman Catholic Parish, Broumov Deanery initiated the project. Below see the list of those taking an active part in the project:
Omnium, o.s., Broumov Benedictine Abbey of St. Wenceslas in Broumov INS Náchod, spol. s.r.o. – design documents Ing. Arch. Jan Slavík, vicarage technician Centrum evropského plánování a.s. – Subsidy counselling and project application Heritage authority, Broumov Municipality, Helena Burešov| – technical supervision
However, there are also universities and colleges, students of architecture and other stakeholders taking part in the informal cooperation or the intention of future cooperation within the project. The project funding should be supported from the resources of the Hradec Králové Region, Ministry of Agriculture of the Czech Republic (SZIF Villages development programme), Ministry of culture of the
11 Czech Republic ((Architectural heritage conservation programme), Roman Catholic Parish – Broumov Deanery resources, prepared EHP financial mechanisms and Norwegian funding mechanism (“Norwegian funds”), donations of minor donors, i.e. from voluntary contributions to the tickets of the music festival called “The Treasures of the Broumov Region” and private foundations and foundation funds. A strategy has been developed for the project implementation, which contains the following activities and measures:
making the churches accessible for the so called religious site tourism; educational trail between the specific churches and the monastery; renewal of pilgrimage routes (St. Maria, St. James); summer music festival “Treasures of the Broumov Region” (7th year in 2012); music concerts throughout all year round; theatre performances; exhibitions and many other events
The current project obtained funding from several resources (the Ministry of Agriculture of the Czech Republic, the Hradec Králové Region, municipalities and towns). The funding covered reconstruction of 2 churches. Thanks to that two dilapidated churches could be preserved and reconstructed. We have seen unique efforts and activities of various stakeholders who got involved in the project or helped obtain the funding, such as different celebrities, institutions and businessmen. In 2012, the town hosted the 7th year of the music festival – “The Treasures of the Broumov Region”. The festival contributes to the development of the local cultural life and promotion of the local sights.
The “For the life of churches in the Broumov region” project envisages successive implementation and revitalization of the concerned churches in several phases due to the considerable number of churches and limited funding.
Phase A – three churches from the Broumov group should be completely repaired, i.e. the Church of All Saints in Heřm|nkovice, the Church of St. James the Greater in Ruprechtice and the Church of St. Anne in Vižňov. There is a possibility to use the “Norwegian fund” subsidies.
Phase B – repair of the Church of St. Margaret in Šonov, with an opportunity to use the subsidy from the SZIF Villages development programme.
Phase C – reconstruction of the Church of St. Barbara in Otovice, using the funding from the Conservation of the architectural heritage programme provided by the Ministry of Culture of the Czech Republic.
Both regional and national stakeholders are involved in the project. Reconstruction and conservation of unique churches of the Broumov group will help preserve the local cultural heritage. The additional activities focusing on making churches accessible for the public and their revival will help develop local identity, spiritual, cultural and social life and tourism. It is relatively well known project and its popularity improves the visualisation of the peripheral Broumov region.
The project creates links between reconstruction and "soft activities" such as organization of cultural events and preparation of the educational trail, which are transferable for any projects aimed at reconstruction and revival of churches. It also employs a real application of partnership principles - by involving local, regional and national authorities of public and private entities. Its financial principles based on using multiple public and private funds are quite relevant for overcoming limited funding for heritage preservation, which is a quite common shortage in many countries.
12 „Open Gates of the Zlín region”
Southern and Central Moravia is probably the only region with best developed, promoted and used cultural and sacred routes in terms of marketing and tourism. This is because the region has many sacred sites and several famous pilgrimage places. “Sacred sites and pilgrimage places in Moravia” is an open project of the sacred site tourism product. It involves various religious sites and events in the region of Southern and Central Moravia considering the marketing communication. (approximately South Moravian Region, Zlín Region and Olomouc Region). Last but not least, specific web portals, brochures, or travel agencies offer the product in different modifications and variants in terms of the concerned places, length of stay or type of travelling (individual vs. organised group tourism). The unifying element of the project is its location (Moravia), target groups (visitors, more than local inhabitants) and marketing concept (open tourism product). On the other hand, the project is not focused on a specific complex of sacred and cultural heritage with a common architectural style or type of sacred buildings. Several religious routes and other projects are linked to the project, e.g. Open Gates project in the Zlín Region as an ancillary project.
The “Open Gates” project focuses on reconstruction and re-opening of churches in Eastern Moravia. The project was launched in 2009 and still continues. The aim of the project is to make a wide set of highly-valued sacred sites accessible. The churches can associate the visitor with the history of the place and show the traditions and customs of the local culture.
The project is implemented by the Regional Authority of the Zlín Region, 18 towns and municipalities, the Olomouc Archdiocese, 20 parishes, information centre in Zlín, Faculty of Theology of Cyril and Methodius in Olomouc, Eastern Moravia destination agency and citizens’ association of Svatý Hostýn. The Regional Authority of the Zlín Region arranges guides’ training, provides methodology support and publishes brochures which are distributed in churches, information centres and tourism trade fairs via other partners of the project. Brochures have different language versions.
While activities connected to opening of the churches are not very costly, it might attract more tourists, generate higher income of local communities and church-based activities and therefore strengthen economic sustainability of local communities and parishes (including the positive effect on funding the maintenance of sacred sites).
20 churches have been opened to the public since 2009, of which 8 churches in 2010, 3 churches in 2011 and 9 churches in 2012. The re-opened churches can be visited all year round from May to October. Excursions in churches are provided by trained guides free of charge. Until 2012, approx. 60 guides were trained, among them students, seniors and women on maternity leave. Excursions in some churches are accompanied by organ concerts or visits to other local places of interest. The project is funded from own resources of project partners. In 2012, the project budget consisted of CZK 360,000.- from the Zlín Region and CZK 515,000.- from municipalities, minor donations and parishes.
In 2012, more than 80,000 visitors saw the re-opened churches. A self-evaluation for the year comprises a workshop and a press conference held annually. The project is promoted on the web site of the Eastern Moravia tourist centre, at tourism trade fairs in Bohemia and in media (TV, radio, press). The project is also promoted by parishes, municipalities and towns.
The project has created new tourist attractions, revived local churches and made local tourism industry more viable. It has also brought together various stakeholders (public administration, parishes, civic associations, population, academic institutions), who might foster further progress towards more viable and visited local communities and its heritage. New jobs (60 guides) were created (however, these are seasonal part-time jobs). The project has driven attention to the region and participating communities.
13 Map 1: Sacred sites and pilgrimage places in Moravia
Resource: taken from www.amber-trail.cz
The involvement of trained guides and offering such a service free of charge as one part of the offered product can be an example of inspiration and it can be translated to other similar foreign projects. The partnership of various stakeholders not only encourages the implementation of the project but it can also positively affect any potential future activities in the interested area. A high number of visitors (result of well prepared marketing guided excursions free of charge) and rather low expenses can be inspiring, too.
„Via Sacra”
Via Sacra is a pilgrimage route located running along important sacred sites at the border of three countries - Germany, Poland and the Czech Republic. It connects 17 places and is located at regions neighbouring Bohemian Switzerland. Via Sacra was started in 2005. The museum at the Church of the Holy Cross in Zittau initiated the project. Via Sacra is a new tourist route following the old cultural regions of Upper Lusatia, Lower Silesia and northern Bohemia. Its goal is to revive ancient merchant and pilgrimage routes, churches and other sacred heritage, to promote tourism in the region and knowledge the regional heritage of the local population. Via Sacra revives a long tradition of the Central European culture formed by centuries of coexistence of Germans, Sorbs, Poles and Czechs at the upper reaches of the Lusatian River Neisse. It helps discover legends, traditions and history of the region by local residents and especially by visitors to the region.
Via Sacra is a product of sacred sites tourism. It features 16 churches and other sacred sites. The project has been developed by three key organisations: Marketing Association of Upper Lusatia – Lowe Silesia, The Region of Lower Silesia (Poland) and The Regional Authority of the Liberec Region (Czech Republic). Several town and city administrations as well as entrepreneurs (tourist agencies) and NGOs are partners of the project.
Via sacra is targeted on pilgrims, regular tourists as well as local inhabitants. By creating a new, specific product of tourism, it helps promote development of the regional tourism industry and its sustainability. It also spreads knowledge of local inhabitants and visitors about regional sacred heritage and therefore creates conditions for its future preservation.
14 Several churches were repaired in relation to the involvement of some parishes. Web site have been created and articles published to provide information about Via Sacra. A printed guide-book was published for Via Sacra in the German language. Via Sacra is presented at several tourism trade fairs in Germany and the Czech Republic each year. 10 accommodation facilities are recommended in the guide-book and the web site (6 facilities in Germany, 2 in CZ and 2 in Poland). Boarding facilities include hotels and hostels located at parish offices. 14 organisations (tourist agencies, information centres, parish offices) organise tours and excursions to explore the Via Sacra sites.
Various visitors travel on Via Sacra. The route is popular both with pilgrims and regular tourists. Some visitors head to see sacred sites or cultural and religious events held in towns and municipalities on Via Sacra (pilgrimages, fairs, concerts, exhibitions, etc.). According to regional stakeholders, some excursions are quite popular with visitors. However, lack of data make it impossible to specify the exact number of those visiting Via Sacra and associated activities and events.
Various cultural and religious events take place within the Via Sacra product, therefore, the cultural and spiritual life in municipalities has been developing. The total number of visitors in the region and its attractiveness has increased once the products has been set up which favourably affected the income from. At some parts of the region Via Sacra fosters off-season tourism (particularly in winter resorts).
The Via Sacra project can be inspiring with a wide range of the used marketing instruments. The clearly formulated marketing strategy of the project can be positively transferred to other projects. It had been developed as a bottom-up project. Then it received respect on both regional and national levels. Via Sacra is an example of a project encouraging cross-border cooperation which is important for (mostly peripheral) border areas. A guide-book for Via Sacra containing information about places and accommodation facilities is an example of a well-prepared popularization of the project/product.
Map 2: Pilgrimage route Via Sacra
Resource: http://www.liberecky-kraj.cz/dr-cs/4506-poutni-stezka-via-sacra.html
15 „House on the hill, Rumburk”
The Project "House on the hill" (Domeček Na Kopečku) is carried out by civic association Dokoř|n Rumburk, which was founded in 2005 in renew the use of the historical extension to the Evangelic Church in Rumburk. The church was reconstructed after a devastating fire in 2003. The initial idea of the project was to open gates of this historic structure to all people, who want to meet and actively participate in the cultural life of the town of Rumburk. Therefore the civic association was named "Dokoř|n Rumburk" (transl. "wide open").
The target group of the project is the citizens of the city of Rumburk and its environs who want to take an active part in the local cultural and social life. Another target group consists of handicapped people. The disabled personnel work in the local tearoom and café which is a type of the so called “protected workplace for handicapped”.
Since the House on the hill succeeded to establish itself as a venue for alternative social and cultural activities in the region, its sustainability is based on demand for such activities. By long term operation a decent group of regular visitors has been formed, what creates promising conditions for sustaining and further developing of its operation in the future.
As a part of the project, a tea room and café was opened in 2007 as a place where the local community can meet. It is also a protected and supported workshop for handicapped people, who work in the café. The handicapped personnel have an opportunity to integrate in the local community and to improve their social and professional competences. The place hosts meetings every Wednesday (called “Tea Wednesdays”) with a cultural programme presenting regional, amateur and alternative culture (concerts, varnishing days, travellers` presentations, discussions, etc.). Since 2007, a small-scale festival is held here every summer, the so called “Small Art Festival”. A gallery has been opened (called the “Upstairs Gallery”) in the extension. It regularly hosts exhibitions of photographs, drawings and paintings by regional, more or less famous, artists. The new intention to continue developing the site is the “White Garden” project. Its objective is to revitalize the garden surrounding the church and its extension.
Within the project, two facilities have been opened in the extension to the Evangelic Church. - the tea room and café and gallery. These facilities are regularly used as venues for social and cultural events. Organized meetings (called the Tea Wednesdays) have been held every Wednesday for many years now. They have gained a regular group of visitors (approx. 20-50 visitors / meeting). Since 2007, the Festival of small arts has been held every summer (approx. 200 visitors / festival). A number of handicapped people have been employed at the tearoom and cafe and have improved their social and professional competences.
The added value of the project to the local environment is the reconstruction of the site after the devastating fire and opening the Evangelic church to the public, its regular use, which contributes to the local social and cultural life. The open space is also a place of informal meetings of the local community. It has helped integrate local handicapped people in society and improve their competences. It also promotes both the Evangelic church and Rumburk as well as the local cultural events to the target group of people seeking alternative cultural events.
The project might be inspiring for "revival" of historic sacred buildings, esp. those, which are not frequently visited by tourists. The project gives a good example how sacred sites can become a place of local social and cultural life. Such projects can be adopted anywhere, where there is an active support by the residents and non-profit interest of local stakeholders. The potential of increasing the added value of a site transferrable to other EU countries (particularly where subsidies are provided to jobs for handicapped people) is the opportunity to employ handicapped people. Creation of subsidised jobs
16 is also a suitable instrument to ensure the sustainability of the place (since such operations are usually not profitable enough to create regular jobs).
„Rumburk Loreto”
The northernmost situated Loreto Chapel of Our Lady (the Loreto Chapel) in Europe, located in Rumburk, is probably the most remarkable sacred building in the area of interest of Bohemian Switzerland and the Šluknov region. The Baroque chapel (1704 – 1709) is part of the former Capuchin monastery (1683 – 1690) and is surrounded by the cloister (1743 – 1755) into which the Holy Stairs and the Calvary Shrine are incorporated (1767 – 1770). The Loreto chapel fell into disrepair due to poor maintenance under communism, its renovation started in 1996. The cloister's artistic decorations are still being restored (especially the ceiling and wall paintings). This restoration work is to continue over a long period since funds are being allocated very slowly.
Activities connected with the renovation and revival of the site fall under the auspices of the Rumburk municipal authority and different subsidies donated by the Roman Catholic Parish - the Deanery in Rumburk in cooperation with the Roman Catholic parish in Jiříkov, the Schrödinger institute and the Labour Office. The site's activities focus on target groups – usually both Czech and foreign tourists (especially tourists seeking sights, people with children) and pilgrims and local residents (parish members, visitors to cultural events). The main target activities at the site focus on its renovation, i.e. its optimum condition and the revival of the spiritual and cultural centre in Rumburk and its environs. The site represents a treasure of the regional cultural heritage.
The ambition is to attract potential visitors and to increase the visitor rate. The site is undergoing reconstruction and renovation of the artwork and decorations. The original pilgrimage traditions have been resumed, and there are numerous spiritual, cultural and social activities taking place to make it the main regional target for cultural, educational and religious tourism. Any future success in the renovation of the site and the organisation of different activities can contribute to the growth in prestige of the site among the local population and tourists and encourage a continuous increase in the visitor rate.
Since 1996, the site has been under reconstruction focusing on improving the impaired statics of the structures as well as on improving their condition. Also being carried out is a long-term renovation of the artwork and decorations. The Loreto is open to visitors all year round. In the cloister a tourist information centre was opened between 1997 – 2005. Since 2006, tourist and other information has been provided by the Loreto personnel during guided tours. Apart from regular holy mass and one annual fair, the site hosts a number of cultural and social activities. Numerous exhibitions take place here as well. Many of them provide a consistent insight into the history of the region and the history of pilgrimage sites in the Šluknov region. The cloister currently hosts three permanent Czech-German exhibitions displaying the history of the building. The site owner pursues publishing activities thanks to which many of the promotional leaflets display information on the history and importance of the site in Czech and German. In 2013, the entrance building of the Loreto will host the Exhibition of religious art of the Šluknov region, open to the public and supported by the National Intervention Fund. It will also focus on the presentation of pilgrimage sites in the region, Stations of the Cross and demolished churches in the Šluknov region. From 2013, Loreto in Rumburk will be an important part of the marketing product Pilgrimage Route in the Šluknov region.
The Loreto Chapel has been preserved thanks to the work carried out over the last two decades and it will be maintained for future generations. Its accessibility to the public throughout all year, maintaining the pilgrimage tradition and a number of cultural, spiritual and social events make the site one of the top targets of cultural and religious tourism in the region with a relatively high visitor rate. The site is visited by more than 8000 people every year. The great number of religious, cultural and social events also encourages the local spiritual, cultural and social life. It is worth mentioning, for
17 example, the Loreto celebrations, held every September to commemorate the completion and consecration of the Loreto Chapel, which took place on 15 September 1707 (in 2013 the 17th year of the celebrations will be held). It is visited by 300 – 500 people. Since 2007, the Loreto Night has taken place in May within the Museum Night Festival, the only event of this type in the Děčín district. The turnout is about 300 people. Summer and winter evening guided tours of the Loreto with candles and accompanying organ music have become very popular (average turnout 50 people). Apart from Děčín Castle, the Loreto in Rumburk is the only building in the region where similar events take place. The guided tours are offered in Czech and German due to the number of visitors from Germany. Despite these achievements, the Loreto Chapel still remains an undiscovered cultural jewel of the region. To strengthen its position among cultural attractions of the region and to increase its visitor rate, it will be necessary to continue the current activities over a long period of time (particularly the renovation of the artwork and decorations and the organizing of different events).
The reconstruction and renovation of the site and its artwork and decorations has helped restore and preserve this unique cultural sight, which is the main local attraction and contributes to the local genius loci. Numerous religious, cultural and social events held annually at the site contribute to the local spiritual, cultural and social life. The increasing number of visitors to the site generates demand for local services and contributes to the development of local economics.
The activities at the Loreto Chapel link the reconstructed site to so-called "soft activities" such as the organizing of fairs, holy mass, cultural and social events, which are activities usable in all projects focusing on the reconstruction and revival of churches.
18 PP3 – The Centre for Technology, Structure Development Region (Germany)
„Church Bicycle Route”
Area Identification Information: Accessibility
Detailed description of the Good Practice:
In cooperation with the church parish Wildenhain and the Regional Management Elbe-Röder – Dreieck e.V., a small cycle route was established. Therefore, different topics have been used for: explore- discover-stay-recommend-inspire-experience-fantastic. A total of five churches are part of the small cycle route.
Detailed description of the Area:
Elbe-Röder-Dreieck (Elbe-Röder-Triangle) is located in the north-west region of the county Meissen (Saxony). About 30.800 inhabitants live in seven communes, which are involved in the region. The area is about 298,5 km². In the region three big companies are situated (chemistry, steel work, forge). Other companies are small or medium sized enterprises.
Stakeholders involved:
Regional Management Elbe-Röder-Dreieck e.V., ev.-luth. Church parish Wildenhain-Walda-Bauda and Zabeltitz-Görzig, Working group Tourism & Recreation, church district Großenhain, Building Yards of the communes (in relation to sign- posting).
Target groups:
Inhabitants (each age, men, women), tourists, members and volunteers of the Church parish.
Elements of sustainability:
Since during the project establishments will not be constructed which would be extra cost, therefore, the financial sustainability is ensured.
Main goal of the Good Practice:
Preserve the cultural heritage.
Specific goals:
Connecting Churches to receive more interest.
Actions implemented / foreseen:
implemented: Spring 2010, opening with a public Bicycle Tour. foreseen: integrate into a new project, where a Bicycle Tour shall be involved.
19 Expected results:
Increase number of visitors. Publish and preserve the local cultural heritage.
Timing:
10/2010 09/2011 Preparation time: 1/1/2 year
Added value at a local level:
Create special tourist offer, which is connected with the preservation of the cultural heritage/ faith.
Sustainability of the Good Practice: define the Good Practice potential for long lasting regional effects:
Open Churches at fix times. Request people for that task. Strengthening engagement of people who work on a voluntary base.
Is the Good Practice focusing the future? And how?
Yes, related to the planned Church route (Bicycle Tour), which shall be established until 2014.
Are there elements of transferability at a transnational level:
Yes. The following elements are transferrable:
find engaged actors/pastor establish a network group find people who ensure that churches open at fix times connect the churches build up cooperation with tourist information centers, etc. to publish the idea.
„Creation of an event from the museum Riesa (and involvement of local actors, e.g. church parish Riesa-Gröba)”
Area Identification Information:
Competitiveness and entrepreneurship
Detailed description of the Good Practice:
Every year, the museum of the City Riesa, organizes a special event called: guided tour through the moonlight. The idea is to connect different places within a district of the city Riesa. Part of this event is to offer a guided tour to special cultural places and to recreate the history with actors (amateur). The goal is to bring ancient culture back to life and to make it comprehensible for as many people as possible. Therefore, old stories will be investigated and formulated into a humorous text which
20 contains true events. Then, inhabitants get the prepared text and act as a person from about 100 years before. In addition, they act on this place, where the historic event took place (whether today the building looks like in the 19th century, with good decoration and the actors, those places come to live).
In June 2011 the ev. luth. Church in Riesa-Gröba was part of this event. 10 groups started in a distance of 20 minutes. During a 2 hours walk they learned about the history and get to know cultural and historic places in their region. At this example, the pastor was performing a special speech about the construction of the church. Meanwhile the participants could visit the beautiful insight of the church and the altar. Outside, famous, historic persons, who lived and died in the region and their relation to the faith, were presented by actors.
Detailed description of the Area:
The town Riesa is located in the county Meissen (Free State of Saxony). About 32.000 inhabitants live there. In Riesa companies from a wide range of businesses and industries are situated in the centre and the surrounding area. The town is well known for its steelwork-history and as a sport centre. But it also offers a lot of cultural and historic highlights, e.g. four churches (foundation wall of the church Riesa-Gröba is from 12 century) and a Benedictine monastery (1119).
Stakeholders involved:
Stadtmuseum Riesa, Museumsverein Riesa e.V. (Association), local actors (volunteers, members of the association or schools, music groups, municipality, craftsmen, traders, ev.-luth. church parish Gröba).
Target groups:
Inhabitants (each age, men, women), representatives from industry and municipal institutions, volunteers, members of the association.
Main goal of the Good Practice:
Strengthen awareness for historic places in the region, where the people live. Connection of different local actors. Connection your home, identification with your region.
Specific goals:
Strengthen the sense for community through common activities. Create joint events. Creation of a local network/ integration/identification. Show cultural heritage on special places against another background. Pass on knowledge about historic events on regular and cultural places.
Actions implemented / foreseen:
implemented: the guided tour took place in June 2011. foreseen: year a new topic and new districts of the town Riesa are involved.
21 Expected results:
Connect people to their local history. Pass on knowledge in a social context. Involve different social groups.
Timing:
June 2011 Preparation time: ½ year
Added value at a local level:
The project is supporting the sense of community and the historical connection. Furthermore, a lot of people have the chance to be part of the creation or attend as a visitor. Different attendees (direct/indirect) from different social levels get an insight in their regional history. Through the integration of churches/pastors, people get an access to that unique places and they also learn about the history. By the involvement of totally different groups from the society as actors and by offering the guided tour to all interested people, the project reached a broad public. It further offers a special experience to the visitor by the integration of local historic places.
Sustainability of the Good Practice: define the Good Practice potential for long lasting regional effects:
The project fosters the involvement with regional history and cultural heritage.
Is the Good Practice focusing the future? And how?
Yes, the project is building a bridge between daily locality and historic and cultural view. It also contributes to create more interest to historical and cultural places.
Are there elements of transferability at a transnational level:
Yes. The idea to involve interested local people as actors, to build up a network and to create an offer within the historical context is transferrable to other countries/ regions.
„Conversion of an empty barn to a parish hall in Wildenhain - Church Barn Wildenhain”
Area Identification Information:
Churches and Heritage Preservation Strategies.
22 Detailed description of the Good Practice:
The Restoration of the barn into a new parish hall offered a lot of possibilities. It aims to integrate the different communities and to strengthen and preserve cultural heritage of the region. Furthermore, it should not just be a place to meet each other, but also rooms for a medical practice to provide medical services in rural areas are planned.
Detailed description of the Area:
The Elbe-Röder-Dreieck (Elbe-Röder-Triangle) is located in the north-west region of the county Meissen (Saxony). About 30.800 inhabitants live in seven communes, which are involved in the region. In the village Wildenhain live about 1037 inhabitants. The area is about 298,5 km². In the region three big companies are situated.
Stakeholders involved:
Regional management Elbe Röder Dreieck (Elbe-Röder Triangle) subsidies by ILE (integrated rural development, subsidies from EU), ev.-luth. Church parish Wildenhain-Walda-Bauda and Zabeltitz- Görzig, parish members (donations).
Target groups:
Inhabitants (each age, men, women).
Main goal of the Good Practice:
Preservation of building base and historic village centre. Strengthen of the awareness of the cultural heritage. Establish a connection between inhabitants-church members and the church (pastor). Avoid a lack of medical services (doctors are more often located in towns/cities, but not in rural areas- often bus connection is very bad and especially old people have difficulties to visit them).
Specific goals:
Establishment of common activities, groups (needlework, exchange between generations, faith,…). Provide a place for meetings, activities of the church parish, church groups, and medical services. Strengthen child and youth work. Provision of rooms for medical services.
Actions implemented / foreseen:
implemented: the reconstruction is still going on. foreseen: establish groups for children, youth, old people, establish groups with different activities, build up medical services.
Expected results:
Construction of communities centre/ a parish hall with rooms for different activities.
23 Timing:
July 2012 June 2013 Preparation time: at least 1/1/2 years
Added value at a local level:
The measure is supporting social solidarity. It further focused to the local and cultural background. It also aims to integrate different people (young, disadvantaged, elderly or foreigner). It creates a space for common activities and helps to supply people with medical services.
Sustainability of the Good Practice: define the Good Practice potential for long lasting regional effects:
The measure fosters the exchange between generations. It considers both, the current and also future challenges.
Is the Good Practice focusing the future? And how?
Yes, especially in rural areas it makes sense to use joint resources. After the reconstruction the building will be available for various activities.
Are there elements of transferability at a transnational level:
Yes. The idea of a common meeting point, a point of faith and exchange as well as the integration of further services (esp. medical) are also transferrable to other countries/regions.
24
PP4 – Regional development agency of Presov (Slovak Republic)
„Open-air wooden churches museum”
Area Identification Information
Area: Ľutina, Slovakia Population: 464 Number of Churches (the number of concerned churches): 41 (SK) + 10 (PL)
Detailed description of the Good Practice:
Polish-Slovak border region has rich natural and cultural heritage. An important element of our common history is wooden architecture. There are 41 wooden churches on the Slovak border while there are many more in Poland. Churches are scattered throughout this big region. This, coupled with the lack of promotion of the churches, becomes an obstacle for "discovering" and learning about the architectural gems of this border region. The idea behind the project was to bring the wooden temples as cultural and historical sites to the general public. The aim of the project was to build an open-air museum of wooden churches, where visitors can see the sacred sites of a wide area in one place. This brings history and cultural heritage to one place which makes it more accessible and serves as an invitation to visit the temples themselves. Ľutina is associated with Marian pilgrimage site which makes it an important center of religious tourism. This makes it a great place for an open-air museum as a center of historical and cultural heritage and information focal point. Target groups of the project can be divided into several categories: Residents of the village Ľutina Residents of the Polish-Slovak border region Visitors and tourists Educational tours Providers of services related to tourism. The outputs of the project were designed especially for tourists and visitors of the region. This open- air museum can also serve as a teaching aid for the Polish and Slovak schools, where students can get to know wooden sacral architecture of a large Polish-Slovak region in one place. Indirect target groups are ultimately the providers of services related to tourism, whether tour operators or service providers in the community, making the project's added value in promoting competitiveness and strengthening the region's economy.
Actions implemented:
In the first, pivotal phase, adjustments were made in the area where museum was to be build. Terrain was prepared for the construction of retaining walls and sidewalks. Subsequently, thumbnails of wooden temples at 1:10 ratio were embed in the area. Each thumbnail was provided with an accompanying sign post with multilingual text (Slovak, Polish, English and German) dealing with the history and other information about the temple. During the implementation of these activities, business workshops were conducted, in which it was agreed on how to continue with the project. In 2012, development and application was sent for the second phase of the project - the installation of an additional 10 thumbnails, which should take place in 2013.
25 Achieved results:
Construction of an open-air museum containing 10 thumbnail wooden temples. Presentation of the museum in the media and improving the promotion of wooden churches. Increase in the flow of tourists and awareness of wooden temples as a whole.
Timing:
2011 Construction of an open-air museum. 2012 Creation and application for another phase of the project. 2013 Planned time of realization of phase two of the project.
Added value at a local level:
Construction of the museum helped the local community and raised interest of tourists in this small village. Museum is a resting area for local residents. Museum raised interest of local residents in their cultural heritage and brought tourists to the area, which helped local economy.
Are there elements of transferability at a transnational level?
Concentration of information about cultural heritage in one place in such an attractive form and their joint promotion can greatly help the presentation of temples. Therefore, the heritage is more accessible for the public because it is introduced to the visitor in one place.
Contact details:
Daniel Dzurovčin e-mail: [email protected]
„St. Elizabeths cathedral, Košice”
Area Identification Information
Area: 1200 m2 (Cathedral) 244 km2 ( City of Košice) Population: 5000 (Cathedral capacity) 238,725 (Population of Košice city) Number of Churches (the number of concerned churches): 1
Detailed description of the Good Practice:
Temple belongs to the Archdiocese of Košice and its owner is the Roman Catholic parish of St. Elizabeth. The first mention comes from 1230. Data is associated with the existence of a parish church. This old church burned down in 1378. Church was only provisionally repaired after this fire. Completion of construction dates back to 1508. Cathedral has a sanctuary with five-part closure, two towers storey vestry on the north side and two chapels and a hall on the south side. It consists of a unique layout of the inner temple, where the main nave and four side of the ship form a Greek cross. In
26 the modern history, the reconstructions began in 1985 and continues until today. Recent repairs are carried out under the provisions 7.1 Priority Axis European Capital of Culture 2013 Košice, Regional Operational Programme. European Union participates by up to 85 percent from European Regional Development Fund and the Slovak Republic, from the state budget, by 10 percent. Last five percent are co-financed, which in this case represents more than 158,000 euros, by sponsorship, charity and public collections. St. Elizabeth with Urban's Tower and chapel of st. Michael has been declared a national cultural monument. Guide service in the cathedral is available every day except Sunday, when worship service is provided by a non-profit organization Pearls of Gothic road. Tours of the house are designed primarily for tourists, but also residents of the city. Organization Pearls of Gothic road also implemented their information center - MiC KOŠICE regional center and tourist information center. St. Elizabeths cathedral is visible and promoted on its own web site www.katedrala.host.sk, but also at the tourist information center www.mickosice.sk, at a non-profit organization Pearls of Gothic road www.perlygotickejcesty.sk, cities web site created mostly for tourists www.visitkosice.eu and, of course, on the official website of www.kosice.sk. The cathedral dominates the town as a business asset, especially in tourism, perceived by local government and the Roman Catholic Church. Everyone individually, but also jointly seek to restore the function of cathedral not only as a sanctuary, but also as cultural and historical monuments, involved in tourism and cultural and social activities. Cathedral is also involved in the annual Festival of Sacred Arts in Kosice. Ceremonial worship if held there, which marks the beginning of the festival.
Actions implemented:
Repairing architectural and artistic elements, the formation of a non-profit organization, Opening monuments to the public through tours and guide services through regional and tourist information centers, mobilizing businesses, and citizens of the city of Košice in reconstruction financing, promotion on the web portals: www.domrimkat.sk Cathedral . host.sk, www.visitkosice.eu, www.mickosice.sk, www.perlygotickejcesty.sk, www.kosice.sk.
Achieved results:
Cathedral of St. Elizabeth has been gradually undergoing renovation since 1978. After reconstruction of the east and south facades, the north tower and the north portal Rákoczy crypts and most of the interior, another reconstruction took place in the 80s and 90s of 20th century. The reconstruction of western part of the cathedral (main) portal, eastern part of the northern facade and northern sacral vessels began in 2011. Pearls of Gothic road non-profit organization was founded by city of Košice and the Roman Catholic Church - the parish of St. Elizabeth's in Kosice in July 2004. Its aim is mainly to raise the money to save the Gothic monuments. This lead to increased awareness of the existence and knowledge of the temple, mainly through Internet portals. This lead to increase of visitors – paying tourists.
Timing:
1985-1992 The first reconstruction in modern age, initiated by the state administration. 1992 - 1995 The next phase of reconstruction work. Government initiative (governing Region and the City of Košice) addressed 2003 restoration funding of cultural heritage and made it available to the public and tourism. Creation of a non-profit organization Pearls of Gothic road by city of Košice 2004 and the Roman Catholic Church, Parish of St. Elizabeth's in Košice. Information Center MIC Košice began the project Košice Wanderings, third 2.10 2004 wave of tourists visiting st. Elizabeth’s cathedral. 2005 Guide service in the Cathedral is provided by non-profit organization Pearls of
27 Gothic road. 2011 The beginning of last reconstruction of St. Elizabeths cathedral.
Added value at a local level:
Good cooperation between the representatives of public authorities, private entities and the Roman Catholic parish. The current restoration of the interior and facade of the house. Raised awareness of cultural heritage due to existing web sites and improvements in the servis accessibility for tourists. Tourist guides helped increase traffic and promote tourism as a source of income and made the cathedral a business asset.
Are there elements of transferability at a transnational level?
Involving representatives of public administration and government in fund raising for the needs of the project, a non-profit organization providing services in the area of creation, development, protection, restoration and presentation of spiritual and cultural values and to raise funds to save Gothic monuments.
Contact details: e-mail: [email protected] [email protected] [email protected]
„International wooden route (PL-SK)”
Area Identification Information
Area: Municipality of Prešov, municipality of Košice and border with Poland Population: - Number of Churches (the number of concerned churches): 41 (SK) + 38 (PL)
Detailed description of the Good Practice: nternational wooden route contains wooden churches around Polish-Slovakian border. In Slovakia, all 41 wooden churches in the territory of municipality of Prešov and municipality of Košice were included. Only selected wooden temples in the Polish section next to the border with Slovakia were chosen, because there are many more in this area. This relatively small area contains rare cultural and spiritual heritage. Most of these temples emerged in 18th and 19th century. The oldest is from the 15th century. Each of these temples is original and unique. The global value of these wooden churches was confirmed by the inclusion of more of them into the World Cultural and Natural Heritage. The technology of construction of the wooden churches is especially unique, because all the material had to be made out of wood. Wooden Churches of the Polish-Slovak border are one of the biggest tourist attractions of the region. They can be looked upon as historical, ethnographical, architectural and artistic asset. Most of these temples still serve its original purpose, and are regularly used by worshipers for liturgical celebrations.
28 Most of the churches are in small parish communities that lack the resources even for operation of the temples, not considering the repairs and presentation of the heritage. The aim of the association is to put churches into one unit by the creating "imaginary" wooden path. This was made to unify and harmonize the activities of the owners for the purpose of preservation and presentation of these sites. The aim was to use the synergy to improve the possibilities of funding and presentation of the temples on the wooden route. The main contribution is strong cooperation and exchange of information and mutual assistance between the owners of the sites.
Actions implemented:
Project. "Saving wooden churches in the international wooden path", involved 8 Slovak and 8 Polish wooden churches. Some of them have been repaired and restored, several security devices were installed for a total amount of 16 temples, audioguides was produced in 10 languages. More about the project on www.zdch.grkatpo.sk. Project "Presentation of the wooden churches in the international wooden path" - this project involved another 6 Slovak churches, where in cooperation with Polish project partner promotional publications and also audioguides in 10 languages were produced. More about the project on www.grkatpo.sk/?PLSK_prez. Establishment of Travel Agency “Byzantine” aiming to create a focal point for all wooden churches in eastern Slovakia. Travel agency creates and distributes trips over wooden temples. Gradual restoration and repair of small temples through various projects from resources of individual owners of temples.
Achieved results:
Repairs of most vulnerable wooden temples Improving the presentation of wooden churches through printed promotional materials and the internet Improving services for visitors of the temples through information boards and audioguides Improving cooperation between the owners of temples aiming for protection and presentation of the temples, other joint projects. Raised awareness of the wooden temples and increase the number of visitors.
Timing:
2007 First activity was the establishment of the Travel Agency Byzant. 2008 Workshops for several owners of temples and project preparation. 2010 - 2012 Implementation of projects from EU funds. 2011 - 2012 Preparation of other projects funded by the EU.
Added value at a local level:
Even a small parish - a small community can obtain substantial funding for the repair of cultural heritage in partnership with others. Saving cultural heritage and ancestral heritage for local residents Increasing the value of the monument in the eyes of local residents and increase their interest in their own culture and history.
29 Are there elements of transferability at a transnational level?
Connection and cooperation of "poor" owners of rare cultural relics and their common approach aimed to rescue and present the wooden temples to the public. Diversification of repairs and presentations - Joint large projects, small individual projects, own funds, private financial gifts and other sources.
Contact details:
Daniel Dzurovčin e-mail: [email protected]
30 PP5 – The Province of Turin (Italy)
„Dai beni faro alla valorizzazione del sistema dei beni ambientali e culturali nelle Alte Valli”
Area Identification Information
Area: In Italy: Valli Chisone e Germanasca, Val Pellice, Val Sangone, Pinerolese Pedemontano, Alta Valle Susa e Bassa Valle Susa (Provincia di Torino) In France: Briançonnais, Pays des Ecrins, Guillestrois, Escarton du Queyras (Hautes Alpes); Syndicat du Pays de Maurienne (Savoie) Population: About 280000 inhabitants
Detailed description of the Good Practice:
The project "Dai beni faro (landmarks) alla valorizzazione del sistema dei beni ambientali e culturali nelle Alte Valli“ is included in the program of cross-border cooperation between Italy and France "Alcotra". It comes from the observation of the increasingly central role assumed by the value of cultural, historical, artistic, natural and environmental in the territory of the Susa Valley and then the importance of its protection and enhancement. The intent is to recover these resources in order to offer to mountain areas that are home to more potential for tourism and socio-economic development. The Mountain Community Valle Susa and Val Sangone, leader of the project, has created a web application which lists the "Beni Faro" and allows the visitor to know the offer of the Valley. This is an interactive map that indicates points of interest, and routes in the area, which make it easier to plan a stay in the valley according to their interests: archaeological sites, sacred art, museum collections, parks, forts, hotel activities and food and wine. Moreover through the establishment of spaces, installations and use of media touchscreens the "Beni Faro" are the starting point and explanatory key for the journey in the valley. In this multimedial info-points is possibile to find the informations to visit the widespread heritage, descriptions, and notices on architectural and environmental heritage of the valley. The videos are in Italian and subtitled in English and French. The content can be downloaded by system bluetooht on portable devices such as mobile phones, smartphones and tablets.
Actions implemented:
Project actions: Formalization of the partnership; Creation of the organizations governance and management system; Census information on sites and projects, training interventions-action and animation network Creation of integrated and accessible tourist products; Coordination and dissemination of the cultural season of the High Valleys; Marketing plan and territorial positioning of the High Valleys Management, coordination and monitoring.
Achieved results:
On the territory in question there is an important tourist and cultural heritage with excellences recognized and very popular (the Abbey of San Michele, the Diocesan Musueum of Sacred Art of Susa, Novalesa Abbey, Fortess of Exilles) and others that are struggling to present itself to the public and have problems of organization, promotion and of economic nature. The networking of cultural
31 heritage can help to overcome this fragmentation, offering proposals for higher quality with lower costs and act in a more organic way, both at national and international. The goal of this project is: Overcome fragmentation and offer coordinated and shared products that involve various local actors (associations, tour operators, etc..) Encourage the participation and the development of tourism - cultural operators , wine and food, consortiums, trade associations that, working in synergy, can come to the definition of integrated products.
Timing:
In 2012 have been installed the totems and have been activated the internet site with interactive map that indicates points of interest, and routes in the area.
Added value at a local level:
The proposed actions allowed to increase in the number of visitors, to encourage the participation and the development of tourism, to offer coordinated and shared products that involve various local actors (associations, tourist facilities and tour operators).
Are there elements of transferability at a transnational level?
The project management experience applied to a large area and dealing with transnational issues can be usefully used as a pilot project for the development of activities on a larger scale, for example, to develop initiatives aimed to exploit territory resources . This model of governance between public and private operators is an example of transferability to similar situations.
Contact details:
Info. 0122/622640 - [email protected]
„Valle Susa Card”
Area Identification Information
Area: Susa Valley Population: About 90.000 inhabitants Number of Churches (the number of concerned churches): 30
Detailed description of the Good Practice:
The "Valle Susa Card" is a tool to promote customer loyalty and to arouse will of knowledge of the territory's nuances: art, culture, nature, food and wine products. A large number of high quality museum, art and natural sites, little hotels, holiday farms and houses and bed & breakfast involved in a overall system, all together ready to welcome and offer to tourist a nice and interesting stay during which is possible to discover a fascinating and rich of treasure territory. All the facilities ensure an excellent quality level certified by the "Yes! Torino Quality" for Travelers label released by the Turin Chamber of Commerce, the "B&B Doc" label of the Province of Turin and by the European label for ecological quality "Ecolabel". The card, valid for an year, it grants rebates and discount (10% discount
32 on a two-night stay, half board of full board and lunch and dinner) and gives to tourist the possibility to gain a final prize if one complete it by collecting all (8) stamps needed.
"Valle Susa fedelt{” is a free loyalty card by which you can collect stamps for by using the services offered by local cultural operators and accommodation providers, all leading to a reward: a hamper of typical Valle Susa produce. Stamps can be collected from, amongst other attractions, the Sacra di San Michele, Forte di Exilles, the Sagra della Patata, retreats, B&Bs, hotels and agro-tourism facilities. The initiative, which runs from July 2010 to January 2011, aims to stimulate awareness of the art and alpine culture on offer and the wonderful parks, but also to bring it together with wine and food production and the accommodation available. Users of the card will be able to enjoy presentation evenings about the local area, tastings of local produce, slide shows and additional reference materials.
Actions implemented:
Activation of two working groups among: - the associations and the management bodies of cultural sites; - the food, wine and facilities management operators in the valley. Drafting of a public agreement among public and private operators.
Achieved results:
• Increased visibility of the territory and its religious monuments in the national and European context. • Raising of the awareness of the issues of heritage and hospitality. • Improved awareness of the local population on the importance of its cultural assets and landscape. • Increased number of tourists in Susa Valley. • Diversification of tourist offer: high Valley (winter tourism)/low valley (niche tourism interested in cultural heritage). • Increased earning opportunities for the local operators. • Customer loyalty. • In seven months have been activated about 2000 Valle Susa Card and reached about 350 final prizes (that meaning at least eight sites, belonging to the circuit of Susa Valley, visited by tourist participating in the initiative).
Timing:
The initiative of "Valsusa card" has been running for three years. The first initiative was in fact the summer of 2010. The card is valid for one year from 1 June to 31 May of the following year.
Added value at a local level:
The Susa Valley Card is intended to be a tool to retain visitors to the valley, and an incentive to connect tourists and tourist operators, a tool to inform about local initiatives to stimulate "slow tourism".
Are there elements of transferability at a transnational level?
The project management experience applied to a large area and dealing with transnational issues can be usefully used as a pilot project for the development of activities on a larger scale, for example, to develop initiatives aimed to exploit territory resources. This model of governance between public and private operators is an example of transferability to similar situations.
33 Contact details:
Info. 0122/622640 - [email protected]
„Via Francigena Valle di Susa”
Area Identification Information
Area: Susa Valley from Monginevro and Moncenisio passes to Torino (about 100 km) Population: About 90.000 inhabitants Number of Churches (the number of concerned churches): 30
Detailed description of the Good Practice:
A historical itinerary, the main route where in the past thousands of faithful from Europe went on a pilgrimage to Rome. The Francigena routes in Piedmont are suggestive paths of faith but also routes suitable for everybody. The Susa Valley has been a central point for connecting Italy with France, through the Monginevro and Moncenisio passes. The medieval period endorsed its leading role as a gateway between the Italian peninsula and the rest of Europe for merchants, armies, aristocrats, men of Church and pilgrims who were aiming to reach Rome or Santiago de Compostela. Already in 333 AD, the Monginevro Pass was crossed by the anonymous author of the oldest description of a Christian pilgrimage route for reaching the Holy Land: precise notes were made of the mansio and the statio in Susa Valley. The project aims to make accessible the most known and about 100 km long and important cultural heritage present, developing and qualifying the offer of municipalities, religious buildings, monuments, natural features and landscapes and local products . In the project were involved private operators interested in providing accommodation, food and local products, encouraging economic impact on local operators and an opportunity for integration between public and private partners. The project is an instrument of territorial marketing, which aims to contribute to the growth of the local community. The Via Francigena of the Susa Valley project now has 122 associate operators owning accommodation facilities, restaurants and stores, takes in 39 Municipalities along the route and involves 3 Nature Parks: the Parco del Gran Bosco in Salbertrand, Parco Orsiera Rocciavrè and Parco dei Laghi di Avigliana. The target of this route are pilgrims and trekkers, couples and families, small groups, not interested in a mass and hasty tourism. Another target is tourism school, interested to link history, art and exercise in the open air.
Actions implemented:
• Paths definition and implementation of a map of the itineraries (in Italian, French and English), with indications of: distances, descriptions of cultural heritage, hospitality and other information necessary for the pilgrim/tourist. • Selection of foodservice operators located near the path, open on weekends and available to offer a agreed menu to a fixed cost (up to 20 euro). • Training of private operators (hotels, restaurants) and involvement of local communities. • Promotion actions: distribution of material in tourist offices, participation to fairs and meetings, creation of a dedicated section of the website of "Turismo Torino e Provincia", activation of a Press Office for the organization of press conferences and sending press releases to present the project, production of educational materials for the press and tour operators.
34 • Raising of the awareness of the issue of heritage and hospitality.
Achieved results:
• Increased visibility of the territory and its religious monuments in the national and European context. • Raising of the awareness of the issue of heritage and hospitality and its cultural/environmental assets. • Increased number of tourists along the Via Francigena. • Diversification of tourist offer: high Valley (winter tourism)/low valley (niche tourism interested in cultural heritage). • Increased earning opportunities for the local operators.
Timing:
The project of the Susa Valley started in 2009 and is expected to continue in the coming years with new initiatives for the promotion and marketing of the product. Currently there is an active collaboration with France aimed to develop a cross-border project ALCOTRA ("Alta Via") that connects the Via Francigena (from Monginevro to Vercelli) with the Camino de Santiago (from Monginevro Arles).
Added value at a local level:
The involvement of 122 tourist operators (accommodations, restaurants and stores), 39 Municipalities and three National Parks (Park of the Gran Bosco di Salbertrand, the Orsiera Rocciavrè Park and Park Lakes Avigliana) along the routes is an important example of positive cooperation between public and private sectors.
Are there elements of transferability at a transnational level?
The project management experience applied to a large area and dealing with transnational issues can be usefully used as a pilot project for the development of activities on a larger scale, for example, to develop initiatives aimed to exploit territory resources . This model of governance between public and private operators is an example of transferability to similar situations.
Contact details:
• [email protected] : "Agenzia Turistica Locale Turismo Torino e Provincia" • [email protected] : "Agenzia Turistica Locale Turismo Torino e Provincia" • [email protected] : Mario Burgay, consultant of "Provincia di Torino" • http://www.turismotorino.org/viafrancigena/EN/home
35 PP6 – LAMORO Development Agency (Italy)
„Valorisation of the Monumental Complex of Bosco Marengo”
Area Identification Information
Area: 44,8 km2 Population: 2,551 (2010) Number of Churches (the number of concerned churches): 7
Detailed description of the Good Practice:
The Monumental Complex of Bosco Marengo was originally built under Pope Saint Pius V (works started in 1566), and it is composed of a church and a Dominican convent. Through the centuries, the Complex has undergone several changes, and at the beginning of the XXth century the Convent was turned into a youth detention center. Today the Complex is owned by the Municipality, that promotes its use for various activities. In order to facilitate the first restoration works, local institutions as the Province of Alessandria and the City of Bosco Marengo, proposed to the initiators of The World Political Forum (M.Gorbacev), the Complex of Bosco Marengo as a seat of the association. The WPF is settled in the St. Croce Complex since 2002, and the first plenary session took place in 2006. For the restoration and functionality of the museum and congress spaces (west wing of the Complex), several stakeholders (Region of Piedmont, Turin Saving Bank Foundation, Alessandria Saving Bank Foundation, Province of Alessandria and the City of Bosco Marengo) signed a first financial agreement to recuperate the artistic value and functionality of S. Croce. The Complex is today used also for weddings and events (cultural and music events). A Museum on the works of Vasari has been created thanks also to the involvement of the Civil Protection units - Cultural Heritage Department. Beyond public stakeholders, an association "L'Associazione "Amici di Santa Croce " is active for the promotion and valorisation of the Complex, through guided tours for tourists, organisation of events and shows, publication of information material on the life of Pope Pius V and on the Monumental Complex.
Actions implemented:
• Restoration of architectural and artistic components of the Complex; • Involvement funding institutions and international actors; • Setting up of a Museum; • Setting up of a volunteer Association; • Promotion of the Monumental Complex through existing Regional networks and tools such as: Castelli Aperti Network, PiemonteItalia Website.
Achieved results:
• Completed restoration of the West wing of the convent and of Vasari paintings; • Creation of a volunteer cultural association; • Increased visibility at regional, national and international level; • Increased number of visitors.
36 Timing:
The Complex ceases to be a detention centre and returns in its entirety, to be 1989 owned by the Municipality. Through to Jubilee funds, some restoration works begin; 2002: signature of the 1998 agreement with the WPF. 500 years from the birth of Pope Pius V-several actors commit to the 2004 restoration of the Complex. Plenary session of the WPF held in Bosco Marengo; 2011: opening of the 2006 Vasari Museum.
Added value at a local level:
Involvement of citizens in the Association and in the use of the Complex; high cooperation among public authorities and private stakeholders. The valorisation of the Monumental Complex, through restoration works, and the visibility gained tanks to the WPF, increased the visits in Bosco Marengo, thus strengthening tourism as a source of income.
Are there elements of transferability at a transnational level?
Involvement of saving/banking Foundations, and Regional Actors to ensure financial feasibility of the project, especially where grand restoration works are foreseen. Involvement of cultural associations to ensure also a bottom-up approach in the valorisation and exploitation of cultural heritage assets.
Contact details: [email protected] [email protected] [email protected]
„Valorization of the Monumental Complex of St. Francis's church (Town of Cassine, commune of the Province of Alessandria)”
Area Identification Information
Area: 33.5 km2 Population: 3,285 (2010) Number of Churches (the number of concerned churches): 1
Detailed description of the Good Practice:
The church of St. Francis dating from the 12th century, is considered amongst the best examples of Lombard Gothic architecture in the Piedmont Region. The tiny monumental complex surrounding the church was originally built under the religious Order of Friars Minor Conventual; the construction works regarding the church as well as a holy chapel started in 1291 and ended around 1327. In order to promote the historical value and the beauties of this Franciscan monumental complex the commune of Cassine - together with the Piedmont Region, the saving bank of Alessandria, the ATL
37 Alexala, the Bank of Legnano, the CRT Foundation, the CR Alessandria Foundation, the Province of Alessandria and the Association Piemonte Nuovo da Sempre - sponsor every year a Medieval fair. More precisely, since more than 20 years a Medieval Historical reenactment attracting an increasing number of tourists from all over Europe is organized every September by the local Association ARCA GRUP Cassine O.N.L.U.S.-Friends for the cultural artistic recovery and the environment protection. During the fair different activities take place with the aim of accompanying the audience back in time to the Middle age for a full weekend of cultural attractions. Among the several activities implemented during the Medieval Historical reenactment: • Entertainment reconstruction of military techniques (e.g. Medieval tourney on horseback); • Reconstruction of Medieval daily life activities (enlivened by acrobats, theater and juggling angles); • “l’arena del gusto” (the arena of taste): is an open space dedicated to catering where the best chefs from the territory of Cassine come together in order to offer to the public the best dishes of culinary tradition from the Piedmont Region. The actual sustainability of the good practice itself is therefore guaranteed by the active participation of the local society to the event and is further strengthened by a growing number of tourists coming from all over Europe.
Actions implemented:
• Medieval Historical reenactment (Entertainment reconstruction of military techniques, like the Medieval tourney on horseback; Reconstruction of Medieval daily life activities enlivened by acrobats, theatre and juggling angles; the arena of taste as an open space open space dedicated to catering where the best chefs from the territory of Cassine come together in order to offer to the public the best dishes of culinary tradition from the Piedmont Region). • Creation of a Museum of Sacred Arts: the idea to create a museum into the church of St. Francis started in 1979 and developed till 2009, when the museum took the final appearance of today. This sacred arts exhibition includes precious furniture and paintings depicting holy scenes (located into the Sacristy, the church itself and the former room where the religious Order of Friars Minor Conventual used to meet). Among the masterpieces of art exposed, a shrine containing a precious tiara used by Pope Pio V (the only Piedmontese Pope).
Achieved results:
• Creation of a Museum of Sacred Arts;
• Increased visibility of the site at regional, national and international level; increased number of tourists.
Timing:
1291 Construction works regarding the church of St. Francis started. 1327 Construction works regarding the church of St. Francis ended. Kick off meeting of the local association friends of Cassine (Association ARCA GRUP Cassine O.N.L.U.S.), which is been created by local inhabitants of Cassine 1978 with the specific purpose of collecting funds and renovate the church of St. Francis. 1979 Idea to create the St. Francis’ church Museum. 1991 First edition of the Cassine Medieval fair.
38 Added value at a local level:
The Medieval Fair of Cassine is a consolidated event that actively involve the participation of the local society, meaning both institutional bodies (like local and funding authorities, e.g. the Municipality of Cassine, the Piedmont Region, several important Bank Institutes and Foundations) and local population (Association ARCA GRUP Cassine). Such a status guarantee the actual sustainability of the good practice itself, which is largely recognized by both institutional bodies and local population. The increasing importance of this local event is then further strengthened by a growing number of tourists coming from all over Europe creating added values at local level.
Are there elements of transferability at a transnational level?
Involvement of saving/banking Foundations, and Regional Actors to ensure financial feasibility of the project, especially where restoration of local heritage are foreseen. Involvement of cultural/local associations to ensure a bottom-up approach in the valorisation and exploitation of cultural heritage assets. Use of entertainment events as: 1) a window to foster visibility on local heritage at regional, national and international level; 2) strenghtening tourism as a source of income.
Contact details: [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected]
„Valorization of the Romanesque Abbey of Santa Giustina di Sezzadio (Town of Sezzadio, commune of the Province of Alessandria)”
Area Identification Information
Area: 33,97 km² Population: 1,300 (2012) Number of Churches (the number of concerned churches): 4
Detailed description of the Good Practice:
Immersed in the Monferrato countryside between Alessandria and Acqui Terme rises one of the most important medieval monuments of Piedmont: the Abbazia di Santa Giustina di Sezzadio (St Giustina abbey of Sezzadio), founded in 722 by the Lombard king Liutprando. In 1030 Ottoberto, the marquis of Sezzadio, completely restored it and built a Benedictine monastery by its side. The prestige of the abbey complex grew over the course of time, reaching its greatest growth of spiritual and commercial activities between the XI and the XII centuries. The church has a Romanesque structure with Gothic elements. It has a nave and two aisles with cross vaults from the XV century. Visitors can admire the frescoes in the apse, which are of some value, and the mosaic floor in the crypt, which dates back to the XI century. Adjacent to the Abbey is the complex known as Villa Badia, which was built on the foundations of the pre-existing Benedictine Convent and subsequently rebuilt by the Order of the Oblati of S. Ambrogio
39 from Milan in 1600, then extended by the Counts Frascara near the end of the 1800s who made it their private residence. The presence of Villa Badia is crucially important for the St Giustina Abbey preservation over time. Nowadays, Villa Badia is in fact structured under the Italian legal form known as società ad accomandita semplice (S.a.S). and. is composed of two partners: a private one (Mr. Franco Daniele) and a public institution (The commune of Sezzadio).
Contact details: [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected]
40 PP7 – Diocese Graz-Seckau (Austria)
„Heaven and wood - the theme route of Holzwelt ("woodworld") Murau”
Area Identification Information
Area: 1.385 km2 Population: 29.243 (1.1.2012) Number of Churches (the number of concerned churches): 10
Detailed description of the Good Practice:
Wood is the main theme of the district Murau and also the basis of an integrated regional development. Murau has already gained a lot of year-rings in terms of wood: National Exhibition, Museum of Wood, Styrian Wood Route, wood-construction house, wood-Europe Bridge, International Window-door facade competition, energy vision Murau, KLH and very innovative wood processing companies. Also, the use of biomass as an energy source plays an important role. The foremost aim of the wood world is to stop the increasing migration and the threat of population decline. Accordingly, workplace-related projects at the level of the overall rural economy are top priorities. The touristic aspect of the woodworld Murau is reflected in the many wood-world objects. 90 interesting wooden world objects can be admired here. These "jewels", the whole subject of the environment and the advantages of the wood are the main attractions of the woodworld Murau. In the woodworld we can find 7 different thematic tours (history, art, economics, ...). Including: • "Heaven & Wood" (Sacred Art and Religion) The special feature of this tour is that all churches and figures are made of wood. This density of religious buildings with commodity of timber is unique and has many complex reasons. One reason is that the region was poor even in earlier times and not all modernization steps could take part, so that many churches could be conserved in their original way.
Actions implemented:
Heaven and wood is part of a network of different thematic tours of the region. The routes are marked, mapped in brochures and are available on the homepage. Thread-Tour Heaven & Wood: The Mainobject of this tour is the parish church of St. Oswald in Krakaudorf. This church has a very beautiful and historically valuable wooden coffered ceiling and is located in the picturesque village Krakaudorf with wonderful view. Also nearby is the historic value Calvary with beautiful wooden figures, the Ulrich-Church and the "Styrian God" in Krakauschatten. Then the tour continues to Murau to Egidikirche and the new funeral Church in wood, on to the monastery St. Lambrecht and from there to St. Georgen ob Murau where Lorenzi-church and Cäcilia-church and can be visited. The final stop of this tour is the parish church in Predlitz. A visit to the wood museum is obligatory in this wonderful tour and illuminates the subject of wood from all sides.
Achieved results:
Based on five priorities (renewable energy, wood, local crafts, recreational tourism, arts and culture), they are intending to develop an integrated regional development in terms of Leader Support program from 2007 to 2013. Thus, the "Energy Vision Murau" Award (energy independent by 2015) and already other several prestigious awards such as the "Energy Globe" have been awarded to the region. By focusing on the region's strengths in addition to the central gravity of wood the other themes of
41 renewable energy, regional crafts, bioregion, cuisine, art / culture and tourism will form the central focus of the "woodworld Murau".
Timing:
The development of the region Murau for "wooden world" began in 1988 as the wood museum opened its doors in St. Ruprecht. The idea of a "wood museum" for the entire region came true in 1989, along the so called "Styrian Wood Route". The woodworld Murau was formed in October 2004 because of the combining of the Styrian Wood Route, the woodworld Austria and the woodworld Murau GmbH.
Added value at a local level:
The "Styrian Wood Route" is the tourist lead project (trips, tours and excursions, Wood Road Race ...). Under the project title "Leader wooden world" the EU-regional development program LEADER for the region Murau is coordinated and implemented. Organizational structure: association. Members: all 34 municipalities in the district Murau / Styria and the Wood Museum St. Ruprecht ob Murau. The special benefit is not just for the Cultural Heritage, it is mainly for the local population, regional development is seen as an important opportunity. Although it is therefore striking but not surprising that many people are also voluntarily committed to this project.
Are there elements of transferability at a transnational level?
Especially concerning "cooperation and networking" in the future new models of cooperation under the leader-funded programs should be established. The funding from the Leader pot should be a little help to stimulate a common trend-setting development in Murau. With the woodworld Murau a regional institution was created, which actively operates in regional development on wood. It links the activities between wood, economy, agriculture, tourism and culture and opens up new important synergies.
Contact details: www.holzwelt.at email: [email protected]
„Domenico”
Area Identification Information
Area: 4415 ha Population: 1,688 Number of Churches (the number of concerned churches): 1
Detailed description of the Good Practice:
The social work project Domenico is trying to minimize the exclusion of people with social disadvantages or difficulties on finding a job by using employment and training. Far too many people with special needs have currently no access to a suitable job. Due to their personal handicap some clients have nearly no chances to find work. Given the dynamics of the labor market disadvantaged people get under increasing pressure. The search for jobs is complicated by the current employment
42 situation. Domenico offers on average 8 to 11 employees from the region a chance to be integrated professionally and socially with professional guidance and care during their employment in the project. People with physical and / or mental disabilities, with mental health problems (including drug abuse), long-term unemployed, difficult to employ youth, older and / or single parents are employed by the organization Domenico in a temporary full-time or part-time employment, with the goal after this time (approximately 12 - 18 months) to get a job on first labor market, or in some cases even get a permanent job in the project. Thus Domencio donates sense in three ways: The for long years uncultivated 3.5-hectare monastery-garden of St. Lambrecht is revitalized, full of new life and a wise use is supplied. The employees feel useful by performing their tasks in the planting and caring for the garden, by harvesting and processing of fruit and finally by the sale of self-produced products. Sense definitely emerges also for the region: the old monastery with its baroque garden pavilion as the center is another tourist attraction in the Natural Park Grebenzen. As a garden for use, to look at and for experience it invites you to rest, for meditation or just to enjoy! A garden of Heal(ing) for all the senses!
Actions implemented:
Making again available the Benedictine monastery garden, restoration of the garden and renovating the garden walls and the garden pavilion and the old monastery-mill, creating jobs as part of a social project, public relations and networking with the Tourist Board and the Natural Park organization Grebenzen, cultural offerings, ...
Achieved results:
The tasks of the employees of Domenico focus on the revitalization of the 3.5 hectare garden of the monastery of St. Lambrecht that so became again a garden for use, to look at and for experience. As part of this landscaping herbs, vegetables and fruits are grown. The harvest is finally processed directly from the garden, and continues as a tea, juice, jam, etc. which will be sold. Also works of wood and willow are created out of special workshops that are held in the garden and the monastery. So you can design elements for your garden at home. The garden is open to the public and tourists, tours are offered, there are cultural events such as lectures and concerts in the garden.
Timing:
In 2004 the four-part baroque structure of the garden was restored according to plans of the garden architect DI Dr. in Karin Hochegger. For the management of the social work project and to provide an appropriate legal framework, the abbot of the Benedictine monastery of St. Lambrecht Otto Strohmaier and St. Lambrecht mayor Johann Pirer founded the charitable organization Domenico. On 1st of July, 2004 the new organisation started.
Added value at a local level:
The Domenico project does not support only the social idea - the creation of jobs for disadvantaged people from the region. The former partly locked monastery garden became a very nice, well-kept monastery garden, which is used both by the locals as a recreational area and the monks. This is a meaningful added value for the tourism in the region. The products from the monastery graden also strengthen the regional brand of products from St. Lambrecht.
43 Are there elements of transferability at a transnational level?
The connection of a social project with the concerns of the recultivation of the historically valuable area allowed the funding for the project: The renovation funds were made available from the social sector. Furthermore the involvement of local issues and concerns was very important: especially therefore the acceptance in public is so high and also donations from individuals and companies became possible.
Contact details: www.domenico-stlambrecht.at Pater Gerwig Romirer, OSB., [email protected]
„Exposure and restoration of wall and ceiling paintings from the 13th Century of St. Georgen / Judenburg”
Area Identification Information
Area: 44,3 km2 Population: 889 (2011) Number of Churches (the number of concerned churches): 1
Detailed description of the Good Practice:
The parish church of St. Georgen ob Judenburg includes valuable wall paintings from the 13th Century. The wall paintings (no frescoes!) were discovered by chance in the run of necessary renovations and then have been extensively restored primarily at the instigation of some active community citizens. Many research institutions, church and government are accompanying the restoration work to this day: University of Graz, Joanneum Research, Federal Monuments Office Vienna, Diocese Graz-Seckau. To finance the continued necessary measures to preserve the murals a separate association was established, composed of the local population and has already found supporters worldwide. Since this time St. George also regularly hosts international symposia and conferences on topics related to the challenges of such restorations, also because at that time in the restoration one at this time relatively controversial method was chosen. Even touristic to the previously largely little-known church has become a center of attraction. The Association for the Preservation of the murals founded its own archive ("Georgs-Archiv") and expanded into a small museum about the history of the place - there are treasures from the Etruscan period, approximately from the 15th Century BC.
Actions implemented:
The interior and exterior renovation of the parish church of St. Georgen ob Judenburg. The restoration and further care of the wall paintings from the 13th Century. The active involvement of the local population. The scientific monitoring and accurate documentation of the steps. The establishment of an association for further sustainable support of this cultural treasure.
44 Achieved results:
The interior & exterior renovation of the church is finished. The murals were restored already twice and will be scientifically constantly evaluated also in future. Foundation of the "Kulutverein Georgsgemeinschaft zu Praitenfurt" (George Community of Praitenfurt) and St.Georgs archive and the related assumption of responsibility by the people for the preservation of this heritage. It developed numerous publications on science and tourism directly related to the restoration.
Timing:
1987 Discovery of the Romanesque wall paintings. 1988-1989 Renovation. 1991 Protection of Romanesque murals on the outside of the tower. Since 1991 Various researches. Foundation of the Cultural Association "George Community of Praitenfurt". 1998 Cleaning and consolidation work. 2005 Installation and opening of the George Archives. 2012 Symposium called "days of preservation of Austria".
Added value at a local level:
The assumption of responsibility by the involvement of the population in all steps of implementation and the transfer of responsibility. The renovation process of the church as a whole inspired also the renewal for the whole village and tourism revived. St. George mutated to the surrounding community from a sleepy farming village to the motor of tourist developments..
Are there elements of transferability at a transnational level?
The administration of the renovation and restoration work has been and still is in the region - first in the local parish, and now the cultural association. The higher authorities, such as the Federal Monuments Office and the University were always in close cooperation with the community and respected the initiatives of the active citizens of St. George and supported them. This kind of real public participation is exemplary.
Contact details:
Obmann: Walter Leitner Die Georgsgemeinschaft zu Praitenfurt, A-8756 St. Georgen ob Judenburg 103. Tel: +43-3583-2343 FAX: +43-3583-327615 email: [email protected]
45 PP8 – Association of Communes and Cities of Małopolska Region (Poland)
„The "Shield" project”
Area Identification Information
Area: Małopolska Voivodeship (15 182,87 km²) Population: 3,346,796 (in 2011) Number of Churches (the number of concerned churches): 40
Detailed description of the Good Practice:
The "Shield" project was carried out between 2006-2007 by the Archdiocese of Kraków with the funds received from the Integrated Operational Programme for Regional Development. The project was aimed at protecting the wooden churches in Małopolska Region. Małopolska historic wooden churches are unique on Polish and European scale and act as a flagship attraction. Both the buildings themselves and their fittings include many priceless architectural elements, sculptures and paintings. Unfortunately, they had no adequate protection against burglary, theft or fire. Thanks to the "Shield" project 40 places of worship obtained anti fire and theft devices as well as monitoring and extinguishing systems. Historical and architectural qualities of the buildings, threats, lack of security systems and technical aspects were decisive in the selection for the programme. Security systems for individual buildings taking into account the specificities of the different facilities were developed under the project. The project covered all the dioceses of the Roman Catholic Church (Diocese of Kraków, Tarnów, Bielsko- Biała and Żywiec, Kielce, Rzeszów, Sosnowiec) and the Przemyśl-Warszawa Diocese of Greek Catholic Church which jointly established a consortium for mutual cooperation. The concept was backed by local authorities, Małopolska Voivodeship, Małopolska Voivodeship Monument Restorer and the Centre for the Protection of Public Collections in Warsaw.
Actions implemented:
In the period from November 2006 to July 2007 fire protection systems, anti-theft, monitoring and extinguishing systems were installed in 40 selected sites under the "Shield" project. Systems for individual buildings taking into account their specificities were also developed under the project. A Kraków-based company called "SUPO-Cerber" was responsible for the design and the implementation of the systems.
Achieved results:
The project partially supplemented the missing devices in the facilities through the installation of modern, complex security systems adapted to the conditions and special character of wooden churches. Anti fire and burglary devices were installed along with monitoring and extinguishing systems adapted to external extinguishing of fires in wooden buildings with water spray. Performance indicators: Number of anti fire and theft systems installed in historic buildings - 66 pcs Number of facilities protected - 44 pcs.
46 Timing:
In the period from November 2006 to July 2007 systems were fitted under the "Shield" project in 40 selected buildings.
Added value at a local level:
The most important tasks of the "Shield" project was to protect the priceless wonders of wooden architecture from the possible effects of fire and theft, leading to the permanent preservation of monuments and their proper management and maintenance. The most significant steps were the prevention of threats which could cause damage to monuments, prevention of destruction and improper use of the monuments, prevention of theft, loss or unauthorized exports abroad, monitoring of the state of preservation and use of buildings, taking into account the elements of protection in spatial planning and development and in shaping the environment. These activities were also associated with the cultivation of Polish culture and the development and shaping of national, civic and cultural consciousness of the people, as well as with the development of local identity, preservation of the value of cultural and natural environment taking into account the needs of future generations, as well as with the formation and maintenance of spatial order.
Are there elements of transferability at a transnational level?
The "Shield" project is an example of good practice which can be easily implemented again and repeated in other regions because all its phases are universal. The project is an example of local government cooperation with private contractors, focusing on the socially useful purpose of protecting the national heritage. This investment was financed in amounts equivalent to 30% by parishes while the remaining 70% of the amount was covered by the European Union, the Archdiocese of Kraków and the Ministry of Culture.
Contact details: [email protected]
„Open Wooden Architecture Route”
Area Identification Information
Area: Małopolska Voivodeship (15 182,87 km²) Population: 3,346,796 (in 2011) Number of Churches (the number of concerned churches): 174
Detailed description of the Good Practice:
Wooden Architecture Route was launched in 2001 by the initiative of the Małopolska Voivodeship Local Government; subsequently works began on the demarcation and marking of the tourist car trail which which today includes 251 unique wooden buildings, mostly Catholic and Orthodox churches (174). The trail has a total length of over 1500 km (over 600 road signs lead to the buildings) and runs through all the counties of the region, the buildings are located in 99 communes - the trail mostly runs through rural areas. Each building on the trail has an information board in three languages (Polish,
47 English, German). The most interesting buildings on the trail include 4 churches added to the UNESCO World Heritage Site list in 2003: St. Leonard's church in Lipnica Murowana (late fifteenth century), St. Michael the Archangel's church in Dębno Podhalańskie (late fifteenth century), St. Philip and James' church in Sękowa (ca. 1520), St. Michael the Archangel's church in Binarowa (1500). The trail is divided into four picturesque routes for sightseeing suggestions. Since 2008, the trail has been managed by Małopolska Region Tourism Organisation on behalf of Małopolska Voivodeship under a project called "Open Wooden Architecture Route". The tourist trail in Małopolska is based on the unique treasures of wooden architecture. It also contributes to their protection through the promotion of the listed cultural buildings. The trail was not intended only for sightseeing enthusiasts but also aims to teach, inform and promote the tourist attractions of each town. The trail is unique on the European scale.
Actions implemented:
The main objective of the project is to provide access to buildings on the trail to tourists. Since 2008, in the summer dedicated staff open the buildings and show the tourists around. Each year tens of sites are open to the public and may be visited from May to October. The guides in the shrines on the Route are employed under the RESTORER project. It is a programme for professional activation of the unemployed. The programme is carried out by the Regional Employment Office in Kraków and financed by the European Union under the Human Capital Operational Programme. For 12 consecutive weeks every year concerts in the "Music Locked in Wood" series take place in 12 Catholic and Orthodox churches on the Wooden Architecture Route. The programme is extremely varied, in addition to early music there is also jazz, dance performances and theatrical mystery plays. The concerts provide an opportunity to discover the extraordinary character of wooden monuments, learn about their history, valuable furnishings and decorative paintings. The series of concerts is a chance to listen to music of different cultures, backgrounds and religions. Admission to all concerts is free! Large-scale promotion of the Route in the media, especially in the press and on the Internet, guarantees that it is not only Open, but also Vibrant.
Achieved results:
In the five editions of the Open Wooden Architecture Route it was possible to provide public access to a total of over 200 buildings and to employ over 200 people. The buildings on the trail are visited each year by a steadily growing number of tourists. For instance, during the the first edition in 2008, when 30 buildings were opened we recorded around 78,000 visitors and during last year's record-breaking edition of the project 59 facilities were visited by over 260,000 people. The responsibilities of the employed staff include: • opening historic shrines and providing access to them for tourists, • showing the tourists around and providing them with information about the history of the buildings, lectures, • minor conservation works, • minor chores in the shrines and around them, • minor repairs, • other as needed and adapted to the potential of a given staff member working directly in a wooden building. Between 2008 and 2012 over 60 concerts attended by approximately 10,000 listeners were held as part of the music series "Music Locked in Wood".
Timing:
The project has been implemented since 2008. The facilities are open to visitors from May to October each year. Concert as part of "Music Locked in Wood" series take place in the summer months from
48 June to August. However, tasks associated with the promotion of the trail are implemented throughout the year.
Added value at a local level:
The most important achievement of the project "Open Wooden Architecture Route" is to open to the public places of worship that have been either permanently closed or else access to them was very limited. The workplaces which were created allow to hire people from the local communities gathered around Catholic or Orthodox churches. Tourists who have appeared because such place have opened now visit the towns/villages more willingly stimulating the economic development of the inhabitants (in the vicinity of the trail places offering accommodation have sprung up - especially tourist farms, also restaurants, shops selling souvenirs and local products have appeared. Organization of concerts in Catholic and Orthodox churches has shown parish priests and local authorities that the shrines which have hitherto served only religious functions can be a great place for all kinds of events. We already we have followers in numerous locations who guided by our example now organise local music events by themselves.
Are there elements of transferability at a transnational level?
The "Open Wooden Architecture Route" is an example of good practice, which is the universal and possible to apply in other regions or countries, on every culture trail with problematic access to the trail facilities or one which requires activation steps. The operating pattern is a model which can be transferred to other monuments which their managers want to activate and open up to visitors.
Contact details: [email protected]
„The Great Ruin - rebuilding project"
Area Identification Information
Area: Kraków (Tyniec) - 326,8 km Population: 759,131 (in 2012) Number of Churches (the number of concerned churches): 1
Detailed description of the Good Practice:
"The Great Ruin" rebuilding project was carried out in 2005-2008 by the Benedictine Abbey in Tyniec. The project was co-financed under the Integrated Operational Programme for Regional Development and by the Public Committee for the Protection of Monuments of Kraków, by the state budget and included funds from the Minister of Culture and National Heritage under the Operational Programme "Commitment of the Minister of Culture and National Heritage." The Great Ruin" rebuilding project also involved the State Fund for Rehabilitation of the Disabled Persons and the National Fund for Environmental Protection and Water Management. The project was aimed at protecting World Heritage by the revitalisation of the historic Benedictine Abbey in Tyniec. It led to the establishment of the Benedictine Cultural Institute in the historic walls. Since 2008, the Institute, whose mission is to rescue European cultural assets, has offered numerous cultural events such as exhibitions, debates, concerts, workshops, courses and retreats, which promote cultural, historic and spiritual heritage. The
49 Abbey has existed for nearly 1000 years and is the oldest in Poland. It encompasses the church of Saint Peter and Paul, its old fittings and library. The rebuilding of the "Great Ruin" has not only restored the functionality of the historic monument, but also created a place for the preservation of tradition, reflection and faith.
Actions implemented:
In the period from March 2005 to August 2008 repair works were carried out as part of "The Great Ruin" rebuilding project. Subsidies were used to purchase materials and equipment. The works were conducted by Spółdzielnia Rzemieślnicza "Budmet" Kraków and included clearing cellars of rubble, securing the foundations and walls, electrical networks and underfloor heating. The works were adapted to the character and conditions at the abbey.
Achieved results:
The project also included works connected with the heat source and more closely with the parallel modernisation of heat management at the abbey. The solution was to use the Earth's heat through a system of pumps and ground heat exchanger and installation of solar panels. The works were carried out under the supervision of the Municipal Monument Restorer. Performance indicators: The rebuilding of the abbey, the use of modern solutions in the historic building Number of secured facilities - 1 pc.
Timing:
In the period from March 2005 to August 2008 the historic Benedictine Abbey in Tyniec was revitalised as part of "The Great Ruin" rebuilding project.
Added value at a local level:
The main tasks of "The Great Ruin" rebuilding project were the restoration of the original function of the abbey and the conversion of the building into the Benedictine Institute of Culture. The most important result was the establishment of the Institute which develops the Benedictine tradition, cherishes the Benedictine thought which defined one of the directions in the development of European culture. Educational products for adults and children (learning through fun) were developed. Numerous workshops, retreats, seminars, debates, cultural offers such as exhibitions and concerts were provided. These activities are connected with fostering cultural and historic awareness and with the development of local identity - the awareness of the inhabitants of Kraków of historic buildings in the city. They positively impact the development of tourism in the region and the increase of the number of pilgrims to the Abbey in Tyniec.
Are there elements of transferability at a transnational level?
"The Great Ruin" rebuilding project is an example of good practice which is universal and may be repeated successfully in another facility, in another region. The operating pattern is a model which can be transferred to other monuments which their managers want to revitalise, protect and adopt for useful social purposes.
Contact details: [email protected]
50
PP9 – Scientific Research Centre Nova Gorica (Slovenia)
„The pilgrimage and spiritual centre of Sveta Gora – the holly mountain ” Pillar: ‘ACCESSIBILITY’
Area Identification Information
Area: Goriška region (Slovenia) - 2,325 km² Population: 119,236 inhabitants (2012) Number of Churches (the number of concerned churches): 1
Detailed description of the Good Practice:
Nowadays on the ridge of the mountain Sveta Gora (The Holly Mountain), where the Vipava and Soča Valleys meet and where the GoriškaPlain joins the Friuli Plain,an extended pilgrimage, spiritual and tourist centre is situated. With an altitude of 682 m a. s. l., it offers also a magnificent view of the Julian Alps, the Trnovo Forest, the Karst and the countryside leading to the sea. In this peaceful and quiet place, there are amagnificent pilgrimage basilica, a monastery of Franciscan friars, a convent of Sisters of Charity of Saint Francis of Assisi,the Marian Museum, the Museum of the First World War, but also a pilgrimage home (at the moment it is being renovated) and a spiritual and educational centre Tau.There isalso a tourist offer:a restaurant and a souvenir shop.
The main and specific goals of the Good Practice:
The main goal of the good practice is to provide not only a religious but also a spiritual and educational support to various kinds of individuals, faithful or not. Besides, Sveta Gora is also a well-known tourist destination of the Goriška region.
The stakeholders involved are:
Franciscan friars, Sisters of Charity of Saint Francis of Assisi, the regional museum Goriškimuzej, pilgrimages, tourists, etc.
Target groups are:
Religious communities, individuals needing spiritual and psychological support, tourists, pilgrims, etc.
Elements of sustainability:
The pilgrimage, spiritual and tourist centre of Sveta Gora with its various offers helps to preserve a very rich and ancient sacral cultural heritage.
Actions implemented:
On Sveta Gora the pilgrimage centre has been supplemented with a special spiritual and educational centre providing psychotherapy for couples and families and also special programs for kids and young people, and is led by Sisters of Charity of Saint Francis of Assisi. There anyone can find support in
51 difficult moments of one’s life, yet Sveta Gora is also a place where kids and young people can play, amuse, keep company with peers, etc. Moreover, Sveta Gora is also a tourist destination where one can visit the Marian Museum, the Museum of the First World War, a souvenir shop, a restaurant, etc. In the Marian Museum a visitor can see ex-votos, remains of the basilica destroyed during the First World War, devotional pictures, photographs, documents, old souvenirs etc. In the museum there is also a special commemorative room dedicated to a seer UršulaFerligoj. There is also a Museum of the First World War, because the mountain of Sveta Gora, as a strategic place, had been hardly involved in the fighting during the above- mentioned war. There are also cultural events such as concerts, etc.
Achieved results:
The Tau centre, which is named after the cross of Saint Francis of Assisi, a sign of protection and appurtenance, offers psychotherapy performed by Sisters of Charity. The spiritual assistance and support is given to families, couples and individuals, either faithful or not. Moreover, the centre offers special programs for kids and young people. In the centre a visitor can find a relaxing place, but also a place full of kids’ joy and laugh. Furthermore, Sveta Gora is also a pilgrimage and tourist centre visited every year by people from various parts of the world, but mainly by religious communities and tourist groups from nearby countries.
Timing:
The pilgrimage centre of Sveta Gora is very ancient and dates back to the 16th century. It is believed that in 1539 the Virgin Mary appeared to a poor girl UrškaFerligoj from Grgar, a small village situated close upon the mountain. In the last decades and especially in the recent years, the pilgrimage centre has been enriched with spiritual and tourist contents. In 1996, there was founded the museum. In 2002, the Tau centre was established as a spiritual and educational centre. At the moment, the friars of Sveta Gora are striving for renovation of the ancient pilgrimage house that is actually in a very bad condition.
Added value at a local level:
On the ridge of the mountainSveta Gora, there is situated a well-knownand ancient pilgrimage centre of the Goriškaregion, i.e. a large area in general. There is also an important educational and spiritual centre of the region. The visitors of the Tau centre comemainly from Slovenia and Italy. The basilica of Sveta Gora and the caves from the First World War are also very important tourist destinationsbecause of the historical value of the mountainattracting more and more tourists from the Central European area.There is an ancient pilgrimage tradition,however, the mountain also played an important role in the fighting during the First World War.
Are there elements of transferability at a transnational level?
Sveta Gora offers a good practice of how a pilgrimage centre can be not only a religious but also an important spiritual and tourist centre of a large territory. All the activities and offers (Tau centre, museums, the monastery and the convent, tourist offers such as a souvenir shop and a restaurant, etc.) mentioned above provide for preservation of the rich and ancient cultural heritage of Sveta Gora.
Contact details:
Monastery of Sveta Gora: [email protected] ZRCSAZU: [email protected]
52
„Renovation of the medieval Church Complex of Saint Valentine on the mountain Sabotin” Pillar: ‘CHURCHES AND HERITAGE PRESERVATION STRATEGIES’
Area Identification Information
Area: Goriška region (Slovenia) - 2,325 km² Population: 119,236 inhabitants (2012) Number of Churches (the number of concerned churches): 1
Detailed description of the Good Practice:
To the southeast of the Sabotin Mountain’s ridge, there is a 535m high peak called Saint Valentine, where the reconstructed remains of a church complex can be seen. On the picturesque ridge of the mountain Sabotin (660 m a.s.I), where the boundary line between Slovenia and Italy lies, the basis and some walls of the medieval church of Saint Valentine were excavated. The church with a monastery was in use until the end of the 18 century, when it was abandoned. The ruins were totally destroyed during the First World War battles. Near the church, caverns and shelters were built. In 1999,Slovenian and Italian archaeologists started to excavate and research the ruins of the church and the monastery of Saint Valentine as well as the caverns and trenches lying on the boundary line between Slovenia and Italy. In the years 1999 and2000,the ruins of the church were consolidated and the church was also partly restored. Additionally, there an open-air museum and the Sabotin Peace Park (development of joint tourist products on the mountain)were set up.
The main and specific goals of the Good Practice:
The main goal of the good practice was to excavate, research and preserve an important sacral complex of the Goriška region, which was almost totally destroyed. However, the church was partly rebuilt and consecrated again.
The stakeholders involved were:
Italian and Slovenian archaeologists, historians of art and other experts of the following institutions: Centro di ricerche archeologiche e storiche del Goriziano (Gorizia, Italy), regional museum Goriškimuzej (Nova Gorica, Slovenia) and the Institute for the protection of the cultural heritage of Slovenia - Nova Gorica Regional office.
Target groups are:
Visitors and excursionists from both sides of the boundary line.
Elements of sustainability:
The ruins of the church were not only excavated and researched but also rebuilt and consecrated again, which means that the sacral building regained its importance and purpose.
53 Actions implemented:
In 1999, Slovenian and Italian archaeologists of the research centre Centro di ricerche archeologiche e storiche del Goriziano, the regional museum Goriškimuzej and the Institute for the protection of the cultural heritage of Slovenia - Nova Gorica Regional office started with the archaeological excavation of the ruins lying on the Italian and Slovenian territory, thanks to the financial support of the programme PHARECBC Slovenia-Italy 1994-1999 (project Gorica in Goriška – stičiščenarodov in kultur). Some excavations had been done previously by the Centro di ricerche archeologiche e storiche del Goriziano. The archaeologists discovered ground plan of the original church. In 1999 and 2000, there same of the church’s walls were restored and the consolidation works of the ruins were performed. This resulted in a presentation of the ground plan of the original church, of fortified walls of the church and of the bell tower as well as in reconstruction of the platform in front of the church. In addition, there the altar and the portal of the sacristy were also rebuilt. Furthermore, archaeologists also excavated the ruins of the caverns and trenches from the First World War lying in the immediate vicinity of the sacral buildings.
Achieved results:
Thanks to the above-mentioned institutions, there the history and the architectural development of the sacral complex of Saint Valentine were researched and discovered. The new findings were presented to the public on an exhibition, dedicated to the historical development of the sacral buildings, and set up on the balcony of the cathedral of Gorizia in April 1996. Moreover, the church of Saint Valentine was partly rebuilt and, with the rests from the First World War, it represents an open-air museum, always accessible to visitors and excursionists of the mountain Sabotin. Throughout the entire hill there are several caverns through which a visitor can walk today from one side of the mountain to the other. There are also celebrated masses on same special occasions.
Timing:
The extensive research work performed on the ruins of the church of Saint Valentine was started in1999 and the renovation and presentation of the ruins finished in2000. Some excavations had been done previously. The project Sabotino - The Peace Park Cross-border tourism within reach starts in the 2005 and finished in the 2007(programme Interreg III A Slovenia-Italy 2000-2006).
Added value at a local level:
On the mountain Sabotin, the Sabotin Peace Park was set-up thanks to the cross-border collaboration (programme Interreg III A Slovenia-Italia 2000-2006). There are footpaths and cycle routes leading to the top of the mountain as well as the above-mentioned open-air museum. Today the mountain Sabotin, commonly known for the battles during the First World War, with its Peace Park, tries to remind visitors about the absurdity of wars and to foster the coexistence of nations. Beside a marvellous view, visitors are offered an insight into the remnants of the past, going back to hermits from the Middle Ages, the church of Saint Valentine and remains of the First World War. Owing to its historical and natural sights, the mountain Sabotin is an important trip destination of the Goriška region.
Are there elements of transferability at a transnational level?
The good practice represents an example of a very successful renovation of some ruins of a medieval sacral complex, comprising excavations, research work, a partial reconstruction of the church, the
54 inclusion of the sacral building into the open-air museum and its promotion as a part of the Sabotin Peace Park. The good practice also shows how necessary is a cross-border collaboration for the realization of this project. In fact, the sacral buildings lie on a territory that once was a strategic place of the border line between Slovenia and Italy.
Contact details:
Tourist association Nova Gorica: [email protected] ZRCSAZU: [email protected]
„POVEZOVALNAPOT TREHSVETIŠČ – The linking road of the three sanctuaries” Pillar: ‘COMPETITIVENESS AND ENTREPRENEURSHIP’
Area Identification Information
Area: Goriška region (Slovenia) Population: 2,325 km² Number of Churches (the number of concerned churches): 3
Detailed description of the Good Practice:
Mt. Sveta Gora, in the edge of the Banjšice Plateau, Marijino Celje, on the mountain ridge of Kanalski Kolovrat, and the sanctuary of Castelmonte/Stara Gora near Cividale del Friuli/Čedad, three well- known and much frequented sanctuaries, have been linked up by the Linking road of the three sanctuaries forming thus a unique triangle of three churches dedicated to the Virgin Mary.
The main and specific goals of the Good Practice:
The main goals were the connection of the sanctuaries dedicated to the Virgin Mary and a uniform and integral presentation of the historical thematic road with appropriate information about the historical and cultural tradition, people, values and the tourist offers of the area. Furthermore, the other goals were as follows: historical research about the three sanctuaries, connections between them and the interesting monuments along the linking road and the realization of the linking road, arrangement of works on the linking road, such as cleaning and graveling, drawing-up of a tourist map and direction signs, info signs and boards, arrangement of benches on resting places, reinforcement of the sociability among members of the three communities involved and, last but not least, promotion of the connections.
The stakeholders involved were: the Municipality of Nova Gorica (Slovenia), the Municipality of Kanalob Soči (Slovenia), The Municipality of Prepotto/Prapotno (Italy), priests of the sanctuaries, the local and religious communities, private enterprises and tourists.
55 Target groups are:
Local communities, especially the inhabitants of the demographically threatened area of the Idrija Valley, religious communities, private enterprises and tourists.
Elements of sustainability:
The project has increased religious tourism (first of all, promoting a pilgrimage which is advisable to take part on foot), which helps to preserve the sacral cultural heritage of the area near the border. Moreover, the municipalities involved in the project have maintained the connections and some tradesmen and innkeepers were invited to sign the letter of intent for maintenance of the connections. The project has got a lot of private support. The partners of the project have been pleasantly upheld with willingness of local inhabitants, their kindness and creativeness and by the support given to the project, all these contributing to the sustainability of the linking road.
Actions implemented:
The project partners have arranged the works on the road of the three sanctuaries (cleaning and graveling of paths, setting up the direction and info signs and boards, historical research of the cultural heritage of the sanctuaries, final elaboration of the road plan and valorisation of the area). The partners have also promoted the linking road at fairs in Italy (Padua) and Slovenia (Celje) and produced the promotion material (web page, brochures, tourist maps).
Achieved results:
The project The linking road of the three sanctuaries (programme PHARE cross-border cooperation Slovenia-Italy 1994-2003)emphasizes the role of the road that links together the above-mentioned sanctuaries (the road, the footpath, the cycle track). Moreover, in the project the history of the sanctuaries was explored and a special excursion map for visitors and travellers was elaborated. The road was marked with special signs directing travellers while travelling, with boards describing remarkableness placed along the way and with resting places fort rippers. During the project, some presentations of the project and meetings with the inhabitants of the area were organized. The project has also increased the cross-border collaboration between municipalities and other institutions as well as their inhabitants.
Timing:
The project The linking road of the three sanctuaries started in October 2001 and finished in October 2002. During this period all the mentioned activities were realized.
Added value at a local level:
The project has stimulated and accelerated an active and cross-border collaboration of some Slovenian and Italian municipalities and other institutions, being quite an innovative approach in the beginning of the third millennium. The project has made possible more intense relations between the inhabitants of the Slovenian and Italian villages and has increased the number of visitors, tourists, etc. on the border area, stimulating new tourist offers and other actions in the area. The main factors contributing to the success of the project were the successful cooperation of partners- municipalities’ structures, readiness of local inhabitants to take part in actions, tourist arrangements, well-chosen experts, etc.
56 Are there elements of transferability at a transnational level?
The project has successfully linked some sanctuaries dedicated to the Virgin Mary that are placed on the border area between Slovenia and Italy, which in the past was a uniform historical region with a common cultural and historical heritage as well as with a common sense of belonging. The project has contributed to overcoming this division that has strongly marked the life of the people living on the border area in the second half of the century. Last but not least, the project contributes to the promotion of collaboration between the municipalities of Slovenia and Italy.
Contact details:
Mrs. Nives Prijatelj (Municipality of Kanalob Soči): [email protected] ZRCSAZU: [email protected]
57 PP11 – Province of Padova (Italy)
„Valorization of the Benedictine Court of Correzzola (Padova)”
Area Identification Information
Area: 42,50 km2 Population: 5605 (2010) Number of Churches (the number of concerned churches): 5
Detailed description of the Good Practice:
The Padova Benedictine Abbey purchased the area around Correzzola in 1129 with a view to farm the land following extensive draining works by the employed local farmers to make the land arable. The Court, basically a large farm, was located on the banks of the Bacchiglione River, hosted a horse farm with around 100 animals, vegetable gardens, wells, cereal storage rooms, ovens, looms, pen- houses, which were managed by the monks. The highest peak of the development was reached around the 16th C., then a slow decline started. Across the centuries, the court went through several changes marked by the transfer of ownership until the final handover to the Community of Correzzola after 1st WW. Throughout the 20th C. the Court destiny was determined by a continuing fall into disrepair and abandon until the Nineties when the Municipality launched a scheme to repair and renovate the court applying for European funds as well as private and public subventions. At the end of the works, part of the court was turned into a hostel and part into the Town Hall offices. However works are not totally over because many of the nearby buildings are still in a very bad shape and need urgent renovation. The renewal of the building was instrumental to the development of tourism in a otherwise quite isolated area. Correzzola lies on the river connecting Padova to Venice which was the reason of its foundation since commodities and warehouses were located along the river to facilitate the trade between two major towns in the Middle Ages. However it has benefited very little from its favorable position and almost no tourism was present until the court started to attract a few visitors from the two nearby towns. Correzzola lies at a short distance from the Venice airport which is expected to be an advantage for tourism.
Actions implemented:
• Restoration of architectural and artistic components of the Court;
• Involvement funding institutions; • Setting up of a Hostel; • Involvement of local volunteers; • Promotion of the Hostel through the Tourist Board, creation of a website, publication of a history book, a photo exhibition, readings on local history, the bonfire of the summer solstice, the celebrations for the harvest, music and folk festivals.
Achieved results:
Completed restoration of two of the wings, increased local debate about the local development following the building restoration, more visibility at regional, national and international level; development of tourism and of the attraction to the area, discovery of the artistic and historic heritage, increased food quality and restaurant offer, creation of a medieval menu , discovery of medieval
58 traditions, increase of the community awareness of its identity, acknowledgement of the DOC label to the red wine produced from local grapes according to the old recipe.
Timing:
From 1129 to Ownership of the Religious order of the Benedictines. 1810 1810 Abolition of the Religious orders by Napoleon Bonaparte. From mid 1810s Transfer to private owners. 1920s The court becomes property of the Municipality. 1990s Restoration works start. The management of the court hostel is transferred from the Municipality to 2000s the private management, start of the collection of old practices and customs connected to the life of the monks, discovery of the wine making traditions.
Added value at a local level:
Citizens were encouraged to learn about their history and participate into public decisions regarding the lost monument, the management of the hostel is performed by a local family which is very knowledgeable about local history and traditions, there is a permanent connection between Municipality, decision-makers and hostel management and a strong support by the public hand to help develop tourist offer and attractions. In Correzzola the community is formed by old families who share a strong sense of identity which was highlighted by the reenactement of rites and traditions that have been revitalised by the community leaders as result of the court renovation.
Are there elements of transferability at a transnational level?
1. The bottom-up approach for revitalisation is the first element to point out. Local citizens felt that the renovation of their heritage was the key to social and economic development of a less fortunate area of the provincial territory. Correzzola is in-fact the largest municipality among the 104 forming the provincial territory and throughout its history has played a peripheral role. It has been one of the last areas in the region to know and profit from the economic development. 2. The second feature is related to the community character. Compared to other nearby communes, Correzzola has had very little attraction for emigrants and is therefore populated by old families who have been settled here forever. These families share a strong sense of belonging and a deep bond. The discovery of age-old traditions revolving around the court has increased their identity and made them rediscover the historical origins of their closeness to each other. In a relatively poor area people have learned to stick together to overcome difficulties. In Correzzola one perceives that this feeling is still very much at the bottom of social intercourse so much so that the old values of rural life are ingrained in the people culture thus representing an example of solidarity and tolerance in modern civilizations. 3. Following the Arab Spring, five refugees have been hosted at the Court. In exchange for their keeping, they perform small tasks for the community, like whitewashing the primary school, gardening, dealing with the maintenance of public places, etc. They also help run the hostel and have proven their worth by becoming very useful to the community. A year after their arrival they speak Italian, are well integrated and accepted by the locals. The Court has performed the miracle of integrating foreigners into the social life of a traditionally closed community with no trouble. 4. Wine-making was put into a new perspective by the central government acknowledgement of a new DOC label. Now the wine bottles are sold as Benedictine Court red wine through the nearby winery.
59 Contact details: email: [email protected]
„ Benedictine Abbey of Santa Giustina”
Area Identification Information
Area: 92 km2 Population: 213.227 Number of Churches (the number of concerned churches): 50
Detailed description of the Good Practice:
In the heart of Padova a large five cloisters Benedictine monastery lies beside the Basilica of St Justine which is dedicated to the protomartyr of Padova killed during the persecutions of Diocletian. Since 1946 a National landmark, the monastery is owned by the public government which has allocated the use of the landmark to two different entities: on the one side the Benedictines belonging to the Congregation of Monte Cassino, on the other the Ministry of Defense whose Directorate for logistics and infrastructures of Northern Italy is headquartered here. The abbey and the basilica houses art dedicated to the saint, including the Martyrdom of St. Justine by Paolo Veronese. The complex was founded in the 5th century on Justine's tomb, and it became one of the most important monasteries in the area, until it was suppressed by Napoleon in 1810. The tombs of several saints are housed in the interior, including those of Justine, St. Prosdocimus, St. Maximus, St. Urius, St. Felicitas, St. Julian, as well as relics of the Apostle St. Matthias and the Evangelist St. Luke. With its 122 m length and 82 m width, the basilica of Santa Giustina is one of the largest in Christendom. In 1919 it was reopened. Since then the monks initiated works of preservation and restoration of the complex. Inside the monastery a student house is lodged, and the National Library of Saint Justine with as many as 130.000 volumes some of them from private donations of university professors. A “Meeting Point” supplies herbal remedies and religious objects to visitors and pilgrims are for sale. Many of the works implemented and in progress are due to the commitment of local cultural associations, assistance by local governments and the university, and the help of foundations and clubs at all levels. Restoration works are implemented under the supervision of the State Agency for Cultural and Landscape Heritage of the Veneto Region. Funds are sometimes donated by private institutions such as the Bank Foundations. The Italian Fund FAI is also a strong sponsor involved in the preservation and promotion of the Benedictine heritage.
Actions implemented:
A network of Superintendencies and the State Agency for Cultural and Landscape Heritage of the Veneto Region are responsible for the Abbey preservation. The Abbey is also a member of FAI. For many years university students have been sponsored for internships at the Library and the National landmark. A club named “Societas Veneta for the history of religion” has its headquarters at the library. Many of its members belong to the university. Abbey conference rooms are available for the organization of meetings, workshops, marketing events, etc. Concerts can be held upon prior authorization by the Diocese whereas social events have been organized with the nearby Directorate and the police. Further actions are the set up of meeting points for tourists and web sites, accommodations for pilgrims and prayer events.
60 Achieved results:
Development of several preservation actions, increase of visibility at regional, national and international level, dissemination about the Benedictines, growth of the tours, organization of events and conferences at the Abbey premises.
Timing:
Since 1919, many restoration works have been implemented thanks to the Benedictine community efforts to engage in new activities and work helping preserve the Abbey. Beside the cooperation with the Directorate, new relations were started with the National Council for Research.
Added value at a local level:
In addition to the conference services in the Abbey premises, the citizens of Padova have been encouraged to take advantage of the offered services. Internships were favoured and sponsored by the local university.
Are there elements of transferability at a transnational level?
The chosen path has evidenced that in order to be put into motion, projects need the support from local institution and foundations, from the cultural associations and from the University.
Contact details: email: [email protected]
„Valorization of the Benedictine Abbey of Parglia”
Area Identification Information
Area: 31,11 Km2 Population: 8.992 Number of Churches (the number of concerned churches): 7
Detailed description of the Good Practice:
The Benedictine Abbey in Praglia lies at the foot of the Euganean Hills, along the ancient road connecting to Este. It was funded around the 13th C. by Cluny monks establishing themselves here from the Abbey St. Benedict near Mantua. The abbey complex is the result of a great work of reconstruction carried out between the second half of the XV and the first half of the XVI century. The only visible part of the original medieval building remain the basement of the tower bell. A complex as large as 13,000 msq, the harmony and beauty of four cloisters, the late gothic style declining into the Renaissance contributed to the creation of a remarkable landmark, the Praglia Abbey. The Abbey Church is dedicated to Our Lady of the Assumption with ten chapels enriched by works of art by Venetian painters and sculptures. In a slightly superior location lies the Ancient Library which was built and decorated by the painter G.B. Zelotti around the half of the 16th C. The story of the library was marked by the Napoleonic abolition of the religious orders but it was reconstructed in the 19th C. Thanks to the committed work of the monks starting from the 1830s the library increased the number
61 of rescued volumes to the point where the library was acknowledged the status of National Monument in 1943. Thanks to the new acknowledgement the library could be opened to the large public and take advantage of new room at the ground level of the ancient 16th C. library.
Actions implemented:
Preservation and restoration of the Abbey as National landmark. Establishment of the Workshop for the Book Restoration, remarkable international acclaim for the extremely valued restoration of the book heritage; discovery and adaptation of the recipes of the ancient monastery spice book; preparation of natural products from herbs and honeybees products created by the monks; day prayer and worship sharing the life of the monks along the different times of the day, guesthouse for pilgrims, availability of a congress hall for 200 seats, and two conference rooms; exhibition space and a restaurant; web site creation.
Achieved results:
Increase of visitors as a result of the new IT tools, more visibility at regional, national and international level; growth of entrepreneurial actions in the field of the restoration of books and the natural products, organization of concerts and cultural events at the Abbey.
Timing:
The Abbey comprising the botanical cloister, the upper cloister, the library 1882 and the church is declared National landmark and the church is closed. The property is divided between public and private owners. 1900 Purchase and return to the monastic life by the monks. 1936-1945 Growth of the number of monks and development of the Abbey activities.
Added value at a local level:
Involvement of the population and increase of the activities offered by the monks to support them, increased interest to the monastic life, contribution of the Congress centre to raise awareness within the community members and associations to learn about the cultural heritage.
Are there elements of transferability at a transnational level?
Local governments were encouraged to learn more about the services offered at the Abbey, i.e. The Congress centre, trade of natural products and religious experiences helped attract visitors and worshippers. Associations helped increase the protection of the heritage.
Contact details: email: [email protected]
62