| Description: |
The project aims to be an integrated approach for the preservation of the cultural heritage and the promotion of cultural tourism, characterised by sustainability. It aims to continue previous similar interventions in the area, such as the Phare 2005, BG 161 PO 001/2.1.-02/2007 “Supporting the Development of Regional Tourism Through the Improvement of Related Infrastructure” and the Phare Neighbourhood Programme Bulgaria-Serbia BG 2005/017-457.01.016 Sustainable Economic Development, both aiming to enhance cross-border cooperation and develop common tourist products. Also, the 'Transboundary Cooperation through the Management of Shared Natural Resources-‘Local Initiatives Programme’ and 'People to People Activities' included activities on cultural cooperation and creation of common traditional products in the West Stara Planina Region, while a series of cultural events are being organised in the project area. Taking advantage of the good practices developed and of the outcomes of
past projects, this project has included in its activities elements of innovation and added value with regard to the above similar interventions. In particular, extensive use of new technologies, such as the digitalization of the cultural material is part of the project strategy in order to inform, raise awareness of and involve a large part of the cross-border population and to enhance the sustainability of the project. The present partnership has been chosen as the appropriate one for the achievement of the project objectives, on the basis of the region richness on cultural reserve and traditions and of the past experience of the partners involved in previous funded projects on culture and alternative forms of tourism, such as cultural tourism. Samokov Municipality is appointed as the Lead partner due to its past project experience, its structure and financial capacity and due to the great variety of cultural elements that should be promoted and exploited in terms of tourism. |
