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Culture Promoters in action for European Heritage

2024-1-PT02-KA152-YOU-0002392512024Mobility of young peoplefinalized
Countries: PT|BG|HU|RO|TR|EL · Grant: €58,871
Creativity, arts and cultureCultural heritage

Objectives

Cultural heritage, encompassing both tangible traces of ancient civilizations and the intangible traditional values passed through generations, forms the bedrock of our collective memory and identity. Needs and Challenges Despite its invaluable importance, we are witnessing a gradual erosion of these cultural assets. Tangible cultural heritage suffers under the relentless march of time, facing neglect and decay, while intangible heritage is increasingly overshadowed by the rapid pace of contemporary life and technological advancements. This disconnection is particularly pronounced among the youth, who are the custodians of future heritage preservation. The allure of modernization and innovation has inadvertently led to a diminished interest in and respect for historical legacies, posing a significant threat to their survival. According to a Eurobarometer survey, less than 30% of young Europeans aged 18-24 feel a strong connection to their cultural heritage. Moreover, UNESCO reports highlight that over 50% of World Heritage sites worldwide are at risk due to various factors, including neglect and lack of awareness, with Europe home to a significant portion of these sites. The project brings together a consortium of partner countries, each with its unique cultural heritage and faced with distinct challenges in preservation and youth engagement. In Portugal, the city of Évora, a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1986 and a candidate for the European Capital of Culture 2027, exemplifies the urgent need to bridge the gap between historical heritage and contemporary relevance, especially among the younger generations. Similarly, in Türkiye, areas like Düzce offer a rich tapestry of natural beauty and historical significance, yet struggle with engaging youth in cultural activities, a challenge mirrored across the partner nations. Bulgaria's rich heritage, including numerous UNESCO sites, faces hurdles in conservation due to limited resources, while Greece, despite its historical legacy as the cradle of Western civilization, contends with economic constraints that hamper conservation efforts. Romania's diverse cultural heritage, from Dacian fortresses to medieval towns, grapples with integrating preservation within the path of modernization, and Hungary's architectural diversity and folk traditions encounter the challenge of maintaining relevance amidst modern urban development. Across these countries, statistical data reveal a common trend: a disconnection between the youth and their cultural heritage, with participation in heritage-related activities markedly low. This collaborative project aimed to address these shared challenges by fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of cultural heritage among young Europeans, ensuring that the rich and diverse legacies of these nations were preserved and cherished by future generations. Objectives To address these pressing needs, our project aimed to bridge the gap between youth and their cultural heritage, fostering a deep-rooted appreciation and commitment to preservation. Our objectives were multifaceted: 1. Increase Awareness: Elevate the understanding among participants of cultural heritage's critical role in our history and future. 2. Cultivate Curiosity: Spark interest in exploring museums and historical sites, using Évora's rich heritage as a prime example. 3. Community Engagement: Foster a sense of responsibility within local communities for the safeguarding of their cultural heritage. 4. Archaeological Appreciation: Introduce participants to the methodologies of archaeological excavation and preservation. 5. Local Insights: Share the lived experiences of communities intertwined with ancient sites, highlighting the challenges and benefits of coexistence. 6. Architectural Heritage: Educate on the significance of local architectural styles, their contribution to urban aesthetics, and their cultural implications. 7. Cultural Reflections: Explore how local cultures and beliefs are expressed through religious and architectural elements. 8. Personal Connection: Empower participants to take active roles in protecting their cultural heritage. 9. Dissemination of Best Practices: Share successful strategies for cultural heritage protection across partner organizations. This project was a call to action to safeguard our collective cultural heritage. By focusing on both Évora and Düzce, we highlighted the diversity and richness of European cultural landscapes. Through educational and engaging activities, we aimed to instill a lasting appreciation and proactive stance towards cultural heritage among the youth, ensuring the preservation of our shared human legacy for future generations.

Project partners (6)