WINNERS 2016
The Turaida Museum Reserve for the preservation of the Intangible Cultural Heritage, LATVIA 1st PRIZE
Thessaloniki Biennale of Contemporary Art, GREECE 2nd PRIZE
Traditional Catalan Cuisine of Tossa de Mar, SPAIN 3rd PRIZE
Thessaloniki Biennale of Contemporary Art, GREECE 2nd PRIZE
Traditional Catalan Cuisine of Tossa de Mar, SPAIN 3rd PRIZE
The winners of the ECTN Award 2016 on the theme ‘Intangible Heritage Tourism’ were announced at the Award ceremony during the international conference 'Intangible Heritage: Incomparable Asset for Sustainable and Responsible Tourism Development' on 23 September 2016, at Plataforma das Artes e Criatividade
Guimarães, Portugal.
During the ceremony, the three winners, selected by a Panel of Judges among all candidates were announced, honored with Award ‘Destination of Sustainable Cultural Tourism 2016’ and received special prize and certificate.
Guimarães, Portugal.
During the ceremony, the three winners, selected by a Panel of Judges among all candidates were announced, honored with Award ‘Destination of Sustainable Cultural Tourism 2016’ and received special prize and certificate.
Award Candidates 2016
This list is published in alphabetical order by country
© Description and photo provided by Applicant
This list is published in alphabetical order by country
© Description and photo provided by Applicant
CYPRUS
Traditional skills and Trades of Cyprus through three unique exhibitions
Leventis Municipal Museum, Nicosia
In 2015 - 2016 the Museum organised three exhibitions, which aimed to promote traditional crafts, which used to be booming during the late 18th century and until the beginning of the 20th century and which are considered to be part of the intangible heritage of handicrafts and traditional craftsmanship of Cyprus: 'Printed Scarves and the Last Scarf maker”, 'Ceramic Art from the earth of Lapithos' and 'Threads of Tradition: Laces and Lace Embroideries of Cyprus'.
In 1991, the Leventis Museum was honored with the European Museum of the Year Award. Today, entirely refurbished and with the new “Constantine Leventis” wing, the Museum aims to continue its mission of preserving and disseminating Nicosia’s history and Cyprus’s in general.
More information: www.leventismuseum.org.cy
Leventis Municipal Museum, Nicosia
In 2015 - 2016 the Museum organised three exhibitions, which aimed to promote traditional crafts, which used to be booming during the late 18th century and until the beginning of the 20th century and which are considered to be part of the intangible heritage of handicrafts and traditional craftsmanship of Cyprus: 'Printed Scarves and the Last Scarf maker”, 'Ceramic Art from the earth of Lapithos' and 'Threads of Tradition: Laces and Lace Embroideries of Cyprus'.
In 1991, the Leventis Museum was honored with the European Museum of the Year Award. Today, entirely refurbished and with the new “Constantine Leventis” wing, the Museum aims to continue its mission of preserving and disseminating Nicosia’s history and Cyprus’s in general.
More information: www.leventismuseum.org.cy
Revival of the Ermou street 1900’s bazaar
Centre of Visual Arts and Research (CVAR), Nicosia
In 2014, CVAR recreated the old bazaar of 1900s in Ermou street, the most commercial street of the city and made an extensive research to locate traditional professions that are now under extinction, clothes that are no more in use, traditional food and delicacies that one can now rarely come across and enjoy, and commercial practices that have disappeared. CVAR’s establishment contributed significantly to the revival and promotion of the street as a cultural, commercial and tourist attraction proving that cultural and creative industries could contribute to boosting growth and jobs.
“Ermou 1900’ is the event that help Nicosia to extend the tourist period and attract more visitors during winter time as a tourist attraction itself by offering a snapshot from the old times and an alternative to all the mainstream and modern attractions. More information: www.severis.org
Centre of Visual Arts and Research (CVAR), Nicosia
In 2014, CVAR recreated the old bazaar of 1900s in Ermou street, the most commercial street of the city and made an extensive research to locate traditional professions that are now under extinction, clothes that are no more in use, traditional food and delicacies that one can now rarely come across and enjoy, and commercial practices that have disappeared. CVAR’s establishment contributed significantly to the revival and promotion of the street as a cultural, commercial and tourist attraction proving that cultural and creative industries could contribute to boosting growth and jobs.
“Ermou 1900’ is the event that help Nicosia to extend the tourist period and attract more visitors during winter time as a tourist attraction itself by offering a snapshot from the old times and an alternative to all the mainstream and modern attractions. More information: www.severis.org
Keeping the Thread – The Phytiotika Weaving
Phyti Village, Paphos region
Within this wealth of natural and cultural heritage, the village of Phyti provides a unique example of intangible culture: phytiotiko weaving, practiced by women in the area since the 14th century.
Today, Phyti is the only village left where women weave on the looms in their houses or nearby, and can be seen at work. A private, small Phytiotiko museum operates in the village centre where one can see the various patterns on display, work in progress and operating as a training centre where younger women can learn this craft and develop new, contemporary uses, such as cushion-cases, bags etc. Phyti boasts a village square with two eateries, a well-restored community centre where displays and festivals take place, a resident artist inspired by the location, as well as over- night facilities. It attracts daily visitors from the Paphos region in groups and individually.
More information: www.conservation.org.cy/laona/laona.html
www.thevillagexpress.com/cyprusvillage/profile/340
Phyti Village, Paphos region
Within this wealth of natural and cultural heritage, the village of Phyti provides a unique example of intangible culture: phytiotiko weaving, practiced by women in the area since the 14th century.
Today, Phyti is the only village left where women weave on the looms in their houses or nearby, and can be seen at work. A private, small Phytiotiko museum operates in the village centre where one can see the various patterns on display, work in progress and operating as a training centre where younger women can learn this craft and develop new, contemporary uses, such as cushion-cases, bags etc. Phyti boasts a village square with two eateries, a well-restored community centre where displays and festivals take place, a resident artist inspired by the location, as well as over- night facilities. It attracts daily visitors from the Paphos region in groups and individually.
More information: www.conservation.org.cy/laona/laona.html
www.thevillagexpress.com/cyprusvillage/profile/340
The Magical World of Lavender
Platres’s Community Council, Platres
The Community Council of Platres promoting a mountainous international summer resort as the Lavender Resort and disseminate all the knowledge about lavender and lavender rituals, as a mean of protection of natural and cultural heritage through awareness seminars, conferences, workshops, addressing all ages and all people. It develops entrepreneurship and cultural tourism in the area based on Lavender.
Tourism, based on lavender is the core business of the Lavender Thematic Center. Children, journalists, adults, companies and individuals may choose a package and learn about the healing properties, the products and business potential and acquire a lifetime skill which will aid to a better way of life, by participating in lavender distillation, organic lavender soap workshop or decoupage and the knowledge to heal themselves with lavender. The National Lavender Festival is a pole of attraction of many tourists and locals.
The scientific research and entrepreneurial exploration of lavender as a mean of sustainable development, has increased the number of micro businesses which are poles of attraction for cultural tourism.
More information: www.platres.org
Platres’s Community Council, Platres
The Community Council of Platres promoting a mountainous international summer resort as the Lavender Resort and disseminate all the knowledge about lavender and lavender rituals, as a mean of protection of natural and cultural heritage through awareness seminars, conferences, workshops, addressing all ages and all people. It develops entrepreneurship and cultural tourism in the area based on Lavender.
Tourism, based on lavender is the core business of the Lavender Thematic Center. Children, journalists, adults, companies and individuals may choose a package and learn about the healing properties, the products and business potential and acquire a lifetime skill which will aid to a better way of life, by participating in lavender distillation, organic lavender soap workshop or decoupage and the knowledge to heal themselves with lavender. The National Lavender Festival is a pole of attraction of many tourists and locals.
The scientific research and entrepreneurial exploration of lavender as a mean of sustainable development, has increased the number of micro businesses which are poles of attraction for cultural tourism.
More information: www.platres.org
GEORGIA
'Tourism and Reality' project
Chokhatauri, Ozurgeti, Lanchkhuti municipalities, Guria region
The project implemented by LNGO 'Tourism and Reality' was aimed at researching potential touristic resources in Guria region, creating database of touristic products and their popularization and conditioned by valuable cultural heritage tourist sites in Guria, which were not investigated and known not only for international tourists but also for locals. The data posses the valuable resource for sustainable tourism development in the region that will have direct impact on popularization of the region, each product can appear as the source of income generation for locals, flows of visitors at local level will develop small businesses (guest houses, cafes and etc), young generation will have more chances of employment, new working places will appear in the region that make them be involved in community life, poverty level will be reduced and migration of adults eliminated.
The main accent was taken on less-known and less-popularized heritage, such as Falconry tour, annual fest Horse-racing and preparation of 'Guruli Gvezeli', the traditional New Year Fest.
More information: tourismreality.ge
Chokhatauri, Ozurgeti, Lanchkhuti municipalities, Guria region
The project implemented by LNGO 'Tourism and Reality' was aimed at researching potential touristic resources in Guria region, creating database of touristic products and their popularization and conditioned by valuable cultural heritage tourist sites in Guria, which were not investigated and known not only for international tourists but also for locals. The data posses the valuable resource for sustainable tourism development in the region that will have direct impact on popularization of the region, each product can appear as the source of income generation for locals, flows of visitors at local level will develop small businesses (guest houses, cafes and etc), young generation will have more chances of employment, new working places will appear in the region that make them be involved in community life, poverty level will be reduced and migration of adults eliminated.
The main accent was taken on less-known and less-popularized heritage, such as Falconry tour, annual fest Horse-racing and preparation of 'Guruli Gvezeli', the traditional New Year Fest.
More information: tourismreality.ge
GREECE
Folk Dance Festival 'Diamantis Palaiologos'
Skopelos island, Thessalia region
The Folklore Dance Festival "Diamantis Palaiologos" is organized in the island of Skopelos, in honour of folklore dance teacher, Diamantis Palaiologos, dedicated to tradition, dancing , volunteering and contribution. Everyone is invited to take hold of hands and dance with traditional melodies and rhythms. Numerous groups from all over Greece, Cyprus and Nepal as well as volunteers from Greece, Italy, Spain, Turkey and USA have taken part in it, while more than 7.500 people watch its performances every summer.
More information: www.dancefestival.gr
Skopelos island, Thessalia region
The Folklore Dance Festival "Diamantis Palaiologos" is organized in the island of Skopelos, in honour of folklore dance teacher, Diamantis Palaiologos, dedicated to tradition, dancing , volunteering and contribution. Everyone is invited to take hold of hands and dance with traditional melodies and rhythms. Numerous groups from all over Greece, Cyprus and Nepal as well as volunteers from Greece, Italy, Spain, Turkey and USA have taken part in it, while more than 7.500 people watch its performances every summer.
More information: www.dancefestival.gr
Thessaloniki Biennale of Contemporary Art: Old Intersections - Make it New
Thessaloniki, region of Central Macedonia
Since 2007, the Thessaloniki Biennale of Contemporary Art is focusing on international current affairs, global restructuring and crises that affect men and their environment. By forming ties with existing art institutions in Europe and elsewhere, the Biennale aims to encourage further artistic exchange. It communicates with artists from different geographic regions and presents the work of artists who have difficult access to areas with intense artistic life on the European art scene. The Biennale comprises a main and a parallel programmes and focuses on the Mediterranean region under the title “OLD INTERSECTIONS – MAKE IT NEW” with exhibitions, a workshop for young artists, a performance festival, conferences and a symposium.
More information: www.thessaloniki.travel
Thessaloniki, region of Central Macedonia
Since 2007, the Thessaloniki Biennale of Contemporary Art is focusing on international current affairs, global restructuring and crises that affect men and their environment. By forming ties with existing art institutions in Europe and elsewhere, the Biennale aims to encourage further artistic exchange. It communicates with artists from different geographic regions and presents the work of artists who have difficult access to areas with intense artistic life on the European art scene. The Biennale comprises a main and a parallel programmes and focuses on the Mediterranean region under the title “OLD INTERSECTIONS – MAKE IT NEW” with exhibitions, a workshop for young artists, a performance festival, conferences and a symposium.
More information: www.thessaloniki.travel
ITALY
The Taranis Fires - a Festival of Celtic Culture
Monterenzio, province of Bologna, Emilia-Romagna region
At Monterezio, every summer since 2004 takes place traditional event that promotes new ideas for anyone looking for colourful dining, a party, which has become over time a key event to experience occasions of knowledge, and re-enactment, in an attractive and unique contest. The festival takes back 2,400 years at the time of encounter / clash between the Celts and the Romans. This event is organised for the purpose of promoting and disseminating the history and culture of the Celtic population that in Monterenzio took office in the context of Monte Bible and other locality of its territory.
There are typical Celtic cuisine, crafts, food, training in arms, workshops for children, educational tours of the camps, a market with handicrafts and local products, the re-enactment shows, concerts, dances and rituals.
This event is a part of a European Network of similar events, related to knowledge of the Celtic world, a way to combine people from different countries that, actually, have a common matrix , beyond any border.
More information: www.monterenzioceltica.it
Monterenzio, province of Bologna, Emilia-Romagna region
At Monterezio, every summer since 2004 takes place traditional event that promotes new ideas for anyone looking for colourful dining, a party, which has become over time a key event to experience occasions of knowledge, and re-enactment, in an attractive and unique contest. The festival takes back 2,400 years at the time of encounter / clash between the Celts and the Romans. This event is organised for the purpose of promoting and disseminating the history and culture of the Celtic population that in Monterenzio took office in the context of Monte Bible and other locality of its territory.
There are typical Celtic cuisine, crafts, food, training in arms, workshops for children, educational tours of the camps, a market with handicrafts and local products, the re-enactment shows, concerts, dances and rituals.
This event is a part of a European Network of similar events, related to knowledge of the Celtic world, a way to combine people from different countries that, actually, have a common matrix , beyond any border.
More information: www.monterenzioceltica.it
LATVIA
Knowledge through Centuries - Rye Bread from medieval town Limbzi
The Bakery 'Lielezers', Hanseatic town Limbaži, Vidzeme region
Top specialtity of the Bakery is dark rye bread with parboiled flour called 'Alberts'. The bread is made after long and labor consuming technology, its worth is comparable with finest cognacs. There are no historical evidences on the exact recipe. Bread 'Alberts' is preserved from Middle Ages and somehow related with Bishop Albert. The Bakery is involved in Youth camp activities, medieval town festivals, guide programmes and takes very active part in educational processes.
Rye bread “Alberts” have won several prizes at international food exhibitions and has received Latvian Quality label- “Quality product of Latvia”, with main activities includes public education and awareness about healthy lifestyles and the importance of healthy nutrition, natural products business". It promotes a healthy lifestyle idea, the introduction of more and more businesses and families on the agenda, thus achieving the objective - making Latvian society healthier. More information: www.lielezers.lv
The Bakery 'Lielezers', Hanseatic town Limbaži, Vidzeme region
Top specialtity of the Bakery is dark rye bread with parboiled flour called 'Alberts'. The bread is made after long and labor consuming technology, its worth is comparable with finest cognacs. There are no historical evidences on the exact recipe. Bread 'Alberts' is preserved from Middle Ages and somehow related with Bishop Albert. The Bakery is involved in Youth camp activities, medieval town festivals, guide programmes and takes very active part in educational processes.
Rye bread “Alberts” have won several prizes at international food exhibitions and has received Latvian Quality label- “Quality product of Latvia”, with main activities includes public education and awareness about healthy lifestyles and the importance of healthy nutrition, natural products business". It promotes a healthy lifestyle idea, the introduction of more and more businesses and families on the agenda, thus achieving the objective - making Latvian society healthier. More information: www.lielezers.lv
Preservation of the Intangible Cultural Heritage in the Turaida Museum Reserve
Specially Protected Cultural Monument – the Turaida Museum Reserve
Traditions of annual custom celebrations in the Turaida Museum Reserve have already been popularized more than 20 years in cooperation with folklore specialists, ethnographers and Latvian folk groups. During the years, the Turaida Museum Reserve has accumulated a considerable experience in preservation and popularization of intangible cultural heritage: 'Folk-song Park – Folk-song Hill & Folk-song Garden'; International Folklore festival 'BALTICA'; Latvian annual celebrations - 'Solar year' with particular events on the Sun’s path, Summer Solstice celebration; Legend about Maija 'The Rose of Turaida' and the campaign “Meet your master!”, during which a blacksmith shows round the premises of the smithy, acquaints with ancient and present-day tools, tells about secrets of backsmith’s craft, as well as demonstrates forging skills. More information: www.turaida-muzejs.lv
Specially Protected Cultural Monument – the Turaida Museum Reserve
Traditions of annual custom celebrations in the Turaida Museum Reserve have already been popularized more than 20 years in cooperation with folklore specialists, ethnographers and Latvian folk groups. During the years, the Turaida Museum Reserve has accumulated a considerable experience in preservation and popularization of intangible cultural heritage: 'Folk-song Park – Folk-song Hill & Folk-song Garden'; International Folklore festival 'BALTICA'; Latvian annual celebrations - 'Solar year' with particular events on the Sun’s path, Summer Solstice celebration; Legend about Maija 'The Rose of Turaida' and the campaign “Meet your master!”, during which a blacksmith shows round the premises of the smithy, acquaints with ancient and present-day tools, tells about secrets of backsmith’s craft, as well as demonstrates forging skills. More information: www.turaida-muzejs.lv
Druviena Tribe
Druviena, Gulbene, Vidzeme region
'Druviena Tribe' is a modern and comprehensive Latvian wisdom center, which identify, maintain and develop the traditions of Latvian people (including craft), display the Latvian wisdom and value through the development of natural, material and cultural heritage. The Tribe consists of doers – Druvienas villagers and their friends - who believe that Latvian wisdom allows to better understand the deeper meanings of living legacy, in generation inherited spiritual values and formula of happiness for family, nation and humanity, and who are willing to make the Latvian wisdom center where everyone including families with children and young people throughout the year will be happy to find, understand and experience landmarks in Latvian wisdom - folk songs, dances, writing, traditions, values and nature. More information: www.visitgulbene.lv
Druviena, Gulbene, Vidzeme region
'Druviena Tribe' is a modern and comprehensive Latvian wisdom center, which identify, maintain and develop the traditions of Latvian people (including craft), display the Latvian wisdom and value through the development of natural, material and cultural heritage. The Tribe consists of doers – Druvienas villagers and their friends - who believe that Latvian wisdom allows to better understand the deeper meanings of living legacy, in generation inherited spiritual values and formula of happiness for family, nation and humanity, and who are willing to make the Latvian wisdom center where everyone including families with children and young people throughout the year will be happy to find, understand and experience landmarks in Latvian wisdom - folk songs, dances, writing, traditions, values and nature. More information: www.visitgulbene.lv
Squirrel Winding
Jaunlaicenes manor house museum , Aluksnes municipality , Vidzeme region
The museum has created a binding Malenians intangible cultural and historical heritage based on offerings. Special attention deserves a handicraft activity "A squirrel winding", evidenced by the reaction of visitors - surprise about having fun, simplicity and emotions. Squirrels winding was offered in various activities as a separate game.
In 2012 was set up an educational program of social studies for children at primary school "Squirrels winding", which emphasizes the understanding of their ability to influence environmental quality. There is used a cheap and simple material of fabric. For taking part in activity no necessity to know a foreign language. Playing is an excellent promoter of communication in the family. There is no need for aids, playing with winded squirrel (a leader of the game asks to pat a squirrel and during patting after some time it suddenly "flee away") what makes a big amount of emotions (surprise, surprise and dismay, incomprehension and the main task - to create the joy is reached, completely smile all visitors of the activity). After having discovered the secret of toys movement, it becomes close to each squirrel winder heart. More information: www.visitaluksne.lv
Jaunlaicenes manor house museum , Aluksnes municipality , Vidzeme region
The museum has created a binding Malenians intangible cultural and historical heritage based on offerings. Special attention deserves a handicraft activity "A squirrel winding", evidenced by the reaction of visitors - surprise about having fun, simplicity and emotions. Squirrels winding was offered in various activities as a separate game.
In 2012 was set up an educational program of social studies for children at primary school "Squirrels winding", which emphasizes the understanding of their ability to influence environmental quality. There is used a cheap and simple material of fabric. For taking part in activity no necessity to know a foreign language. Playing is an excellent promoter of communication in the family. There is no need for aids, playing with winded squirrel (a leader of the game asks to pat a squirrel and during patting after some time it suddenly "flee away") what makes a big amount of emotions (surprise, surprise and dismay, incomprehension and the main task - to create the joy is reached, completely smile all visitors of the activity). After having discovered the secret of toys movement, it becomes close to each squirrel winder heart. More information: www.visitaluksne.lv
Annual Summer Solstice event at Tinuzi
Tinuzi, Ikskile
Summer solistice is the oldest, most important and most spectacular festival in whole Latvian culture, which strengthening the Latvian wisdom and culture.
Tradition of several hundred years, has been passed down from generation to generation and it has been able to unite the people with the land and an ancestors. Thanks to the spiritual value of the role of culture and traditions of inheritance, to the present day has been preserved more than 40,00 different songs, melodies, and beliefs, which tells the story of this single event.
The main rituals and symbols in Summer Solstice event in Tinuzi are fire, where a special role is reserved for a ritual, when a huge wheel filled with hay, it is set on fire with singing and decorations. More information: www.ikskile.lv/tourisms
Tinuzi, Ikskile
Summer solistice is the oldest, most important and most spectacular festival in whole Latvian culture, which strengthening the Latvian wisdom and culture.
Tradition of several hundred years, has been passed down from generation to generation and it has been able to unite the people with the land and an ancestors. Thanks to the spiritual value of the role of culture and traditions of inheritance, to the present day has been preserved more than 40,00 different songs, melodies, and beliefs, which tells the story of this single event.
The main rituals and symbols in Summer Solstice event in Tinuzi are fire, where a special role is reserved for a ritual, when a huge wheel filled with hay, it is set on fire with singing and decorations. More information: www.ikskile.lv/tourisms
Gauja raftsmen tradition maintenance in Latvia and their international integration
Strenci, Strenci municipality , Vidzeme region
Gauja river heritage is tree rafting, which in the past contributed to the economic development of the river banks, created new settlements and forms a unique culture, which are stored today. Gauja raftsmen tradition is a Latvian intangible cultural heritage of communities, groups or individuals living in interaction handed down from generation to generation and constantly renewed interaction with the environment, nature and history.
The two most important destinations were floating Strenci, where already in 1860 established a large sawmill and Ligatne. Gauja ancient times served as an important trade route.
Every year on the third Saturday of the May is held the annual Gauja Raftsmen Festival. Safeguarding of this unique heritage contribute to the strengthening of local cultural identity that create a basis for sustainable and balanced development of the territory. Association “Gauja Timber Raftsmen” has set up international raftsmen urban network that combines the places in which is still maintained and promoted rafting tradition. International Timber-Raftsmen Association has given the right to pick up and to organize the International Timber-Raftsmen Association General Assembly in 2014 Latvia, Strenci. At present, the International Timber-Raftsmen Association working to get UNESCO status. More information: www.strencunovads.lv
Strenci, Strenci municipality , Vidzeme region
Gauja river heritage is tree rafting, which in the past contributed to the economic development of the river banks, created new settlements and forms a unique culture, which are stored today. Gauja raftsmen tradition is a Latvian intangible cultural heritage of communities, groups or individuals living in interaction handed down from generation to generation and constantly renewed interaction with the environment, nature and history.
The two most important destinations were floating Strenci, where already in 1860 established a large sawmill and Ligatne. Gauja ancient times served as an important trade route.
Every year on the third Saturday of the May is held the annual Gauja Raftsmen Festival. Safeguarding of this unique heritage contribute to the strengthening of local cultural identity that create a basis for sustainable and balanced development of the territory. Association “Gauja Timber Raftsmen” has set up international raftsmen urban network that combines the places in which is still maintained and promoted rafting tradition. International Timber-Raftsmen Association has given the right to pick up and to organize the International Timber-Raftsmen Association General Assembly in 2014 Latvia, Strenci. At present, the International Timber-Raftsmen Association working to get UNESCO status. More information: www.strencunovads.lv
PORTUGAL
Vila do Conde - harbor open to the world
Vila do Conde, North region
For centuries Vila do Conde’s county was a departure port to the World and one of the greatest shipyards of Portuguese discoveries.
The local community has a long cultural tradition that values heritage and memory, and after gaining conscience that the economic environment that resulted from the new European canvas was changing shipyards from wood to other materials, joined the municipality to reinforce the protection of wood shipyard techniques and the particular world of the shipyard carpenters, caulkers and naval painters.
Rituals, uses and techniques have been recorded, both orally, in video and in writing, a Museum for Naval Construction was built. Communitarian programs where developed, including an outstanding production by involving hundreds of locals aiming to reinforce de communitarian feeling about this heritage. This production resulted in the greatest Portuguese street musical play where hundreds of amateurs lead by a professional theater company, performed the play “A port to the World”, which make this cultural asset also a shared touristic value. More information: www.cm-viladoconde.pt
Vila do Conde, North region
For centuries Vila do Conde’s county was a departure port to the World and one of the greatest shipyards of Portuguese discoveries.
The local community has a long cultural tradition that values heritage and memory, and after gaining conscience that the economic environment that resulted from the new European canvas was changing shipyards from wood to other materials, joined the municipality to reinforce the protection of wood shipyard techniques and the particular world of the shipyard carpenters, caulkers and naval painters.
Rituals, uses and techniques have been recorded, both orally, in video and in writing, a Museum for Naval Construction was built. Communitarian programs where developed, including an outstanding production by involving hundreds of locals aiming to reinforce de communitarian feeling about this heritage. This production resulted in the greatest Portuguese street musical play where hundreds of amateurs lead by a professional theater company, performed the play “A port to the World”, which make this cultural asset also a shared touristic value. More information: www.cm-viladoconde.pt
ROMANIA
Animate ASTRA – a friendly way of living the valuable traditions
ASTRA National Museum Complex, Sibiu, Transylvania
The ASTRA Museum presents the ethnographic heritage of Romania, the Saxon minority ethnographic, a very provocative cultural program based on an extra-European collection and a documentary film program, which is also holding an important international film festival. The largest museum unit is the Open Air Museum, animated by craftsmen, musicians, dancers of all ages, together with whom the visitors are invited to work, learn and dance through various types of experiences.
Animate ASTRA is a program, which creates a context in which visitors can learn about Romanian intangible cultural heritage by direct relation to the material heritage that is always present in the museum. By seeing craftsmen at work, by listening to traditional folk music that is sang or played at various instruments, by watching traditional dances being performed and by getting directly involved in the process, local visitors come to be more aware of and interested in their own roots and heritage, while foreigners are glad to be part of a culture that is different than their own. The greatest achievement of Animate ASTRA is the fact that people come in contact with a living place, where tradition is a present reality, where people promoting it are encouraged to love, respect and pass on their heritage. www.muzeulastra.ro
ASTRA National Museum Complex, Sibiu, Transylvania
The ASTRA Museum presents the ethnographic heritage of Romania, the Saxon minority ethnographic, a very provocative cultural program based on an extra-European collection and a documentary film program, which is also holding an important international film festival. The largest museum unit is the Open Air Museum, animated by craftsmen, musicians, dancers of all ages, together with whom the visitors are invited to work, learn and dance through various types of experiences.
Animate ASTRA is a program, which creates a context in which visitors can learn about Romanian intangible cultural heritage by direct relation to the material heritage that is always present in the museum. By seeing craftsmen at work, by listening to traditional folk music that is sang or played at various instruments, by watching traditional dances being performed and by getting directly involved in the process, local visitors come to be more aware of and interested in their own roots and heritage, while foreigners are glad to be part of a culture that is different than their own. The greatest achievement of Animate ASTRA is the fact that people come in contact with a living place, where tradition is a present reality, where people promoting it are encouraged to love, respect and pass on their heritage. www.muzeulastra.ro
The story of multiculturalism in Europe: Transylvanian Highlands
Transylvanian Highlands, South East region
Transylvanian Highlands is the largest continental tourism destination in Romania which aims to be the biggest certified Eco touristic destination in the country by 2020. This project is the result of more than 15 years of local and regional private and public initiatives that aim at protecting the natural and cultural heritage, through sustainable development of local communities.
Important steps have been made to support local entrepreneurs in the destination of Transylvanian Highlands. Several craftsmen have received assistance in developing business plans and identifying new opportunities as well as challenges related to their businesses. The entrepreneurs already started to expand their views and are planning to make use of the business opportunities to become more successful and competitive.
More information: www.mioritics.ro
Transylvanian Highlands, South East region
Transylvanian Highlands is the largest continental tourism destination in Romania which aims to be the biggest certified Eco touristic destination in the country by 2020. This project is the result of more than 15 years of local and regional private and public initiatives that aim at protecting the natural and cultural heritage, through sustainable development of local communities.
Important steps have been made to support local entrepreneurs in the destination of Transylvanian Highlands. Several craftsmen have received assistance in developing business plans and identifying new opportunities as well as challenges related to their businesses. The entrepreneurs already started to expand their views and are planning to make use of the business opportunities to become more successful and competitive.
More information: www.mioritics.ro
Horezu Ceramics or Hurez Ceramics
(Hurez being the former name of Horezu commune)
Horezu City, Vâlcea County
Horezu ceramics are a unique traditional craft. Handmade, they reflect the knowledge and craftsmanship that the Horezu practitioners recognize as theirs. Their fabrication includes various processes - the selection and extraction of the clay, cleaning, cutting, watering, kneading, trampling, and mixing - which transform the earth into a clay with which the potters of Horezu produce a red pottery. Their experience enables them to calculate the size of the ball of clay by holding and looking at it. It is then shaped, decorated, fired.
The potters master the technique of shaping which requires concentration, strength and agility. They shape the object with a special finger technique, as a traditional code of gestures. Each person has his/her own method of shaping, but everyone respects the sequence of operations.
More information: www.horezuland.ro www.galmicroregiuneahorezu.ro
(Hurez being the former name of Horezu commune)
Horezu City, Vâlcea County
Horezu ceramics are a unique traditional craft. Handmade, they reflect the knowledge and craftsmanship that the Horezu practitioners recognize as theirs. Their fabrication includes various processes - the selection and extraction of the clay, cleaning, cutting, watering, kneading, trampling, and mixing - which transform the earth into a clay with which the potters of Horezu produce a red pottery. Their experience enables them to calculate the size of the ball of clay by holding and looking at it. It is then shaped, decorated, fired.
The potters master the technique of shaping which requires concentration, strength and agility. They shape the object with a special finger technique, as a traditional code of gestures. Each person has his/her own method of shaping, but everyone respects the sequence of operations.
More information: www.horezuland.ro www.galmicroregiuneahorezu.ro
The International Folk Festival 'CEAHLAUL'
Neamt County
The CEAHLAUL promoting cultural identity of Neamt County and Romania, international cultural exchange, the reintegration of authentic tradition in urban spaces and contemporary mentalities that show a tendency of uprooting compared to traditional values, regaining young audiences strongly influenced by cultural products falsely advertised as authentic folklore, protection of areas of cultural and historical heritage by organising shows even in these locations.
The festival is committed to and encouraging international cultural exchange and establish a viable forum for folk artists and groups to demonstrate their talent, artistry and inspiration through the beauty of the costumes, dances and the traditional music. It is a celebration of colours, music and dance. Great performances, spectaclural parades of participants, dancing and singing workshops, evenings of ‘friendship’ create a special, unique atmosphere.
Now, more than 80 folk assemblies have taken part, which means over 3000 participants from 25 countries in Europe, Asia, Africa and America, Mexico, Vietnam and other countries world wide. The programme features open stage performances focused on the local audience in other localities. A number of parallel events are also organized – street parades, book launches, creative meetings. The festival reaches a total audience of 10,000 people.
www.turismretezat.ro
Neamt County
The CEAHLAUL promoting cultural identity of Neamt County and Romania, international cultural exchange, the reintegration of authentic tradition in urban spaces and contemporary mentalities that show a tendency of uprooting compared to traditional values, regaining young audiences strongly influenced by cultural products falsely advertised as authentic folklore, protection of areas of cultural and historical heritage by organising shows even in these locations.
The festival is committed to and encouraging international cultural exchange and establish a viable forum for folk artists and groups to demonstrate their talent, artistry and inspiration through the beauty of the costumes, dances and the traditional music. It is a celebration of colours, music and dance. Great performances, spectaclural parades of participants, dancing and singing workshops, evenings of ‘friendship’ create a special, unique atmosphere.
Now, more than 80 folk assemblies have taken part, which means over 3000 participants from 25 countries in Europe, Asia, Africa and America, Mexico, Vietnam and other countries world wide. The programme features open stage performances focused on the local audience in other localities. A number of parallel events are also organized – street parades, book launches, creative meetings. The festival reaches a total audience of 10,000 people.
www.turismretezat.ro
Dinosaurs and Dragons. Heritage interpretation based on science and popular knowledge in the Hateg – Retezat Ecotourism Destination
Hateg Country – Retezat Mountains, Transylvania
Hateg Global Geopark uses an innovative approach on community involvement. Intangible heritage focus – knowledge - offers a collection of space related information developed by the community. It ranges from practical knowledge about space to imagined places based on myths and beliefs. It can refer to a group’s space perception of a region, but it covers also the Mythical Geography of real or imagined places like the deep meanings of a crossroad or the geography of Heaven and Hell. This particular type of geographical information forms a community’s view of the world and its attempt to make sense of things, to explain Nature and to explore Space.
It is an alternative space, dominated by practical and experience, combined with faith and imagination.
The Geopark’s approach on involving the local communities along with their culture, tangible and intangible, real or perceived, could establish a model of territorial development and heritage interpretation. www.hateggeoparc.ro
Hateg Country – Retezat Mountains, Transylvania
Hateg Global Geopark uses an innovative approach on community involvement. Intangible heritage focus – knowledge - offers a collection of space related information developed by the community. It ranges from practical knowledge about space to imagined places based on myths and beliefs. It can refer to a group’s space perception of a region, but it covers also the Mythical Geography of real or imagined places like the deep meanings of a crossroad or the geography of Heaven and Hell. This particular type of geographical information forms a community’s view of the world and its attempt to make sense of things, to explain Nature and to explore Space.
It is an alternative space, dominated by practical and experience, combined with faith and imagination.
The Geopark’s approach on involving the local communities along with their culture, tangible and intangible, real or perceived, could establish a model of territorial development and heritage interpretation. www.hateggeoparc.ro
Gastronomic events for the development of rural areas in southern Transylvania
Sibiu county, South Transylvania
Gastronomic events rediscover the cultural treasures and the traditions hidden in Transylvanian villages, to have a healthy diet based on recipes passed on from ancestors, to re-learn, to love the tranquility of the village and the time spent in nature, to support local producers and the communities visit, to socialize by eating together, to promote among visitors lesser known areas. Overall, the entire region acquires through this mosaic of events a yet unknown dimension – its culinary identity. The merit of this new concept is that it brings together three parties which so far have never met in an organized manner: small producers, local communities and tourists for the benefit of local producers, who otherwise have no market for their organic, healthy, fresh products; the residents of some forgotten villages because of the way the community is reinvigorated, ensuring an income for itself and getting actively involved in local tourism and visitors who stop by and discover a world of good tastes, specific traditions and old stories.
Since 2008, between April and October, there are five series of events organized according to the specificity of the area and the season. Around 23-30 gastronomic and alternative events in 65 Transylvanian villages: 'Transylvania Brunch' , 'Hârtibaciu – Târnave' , 'Picnic in Cindrel' , 'Dinner in Nature', and 'Flavours and Sounds of Transylvania'. These events creating reasons to visit non-tourist areas; provide research about the local culinary history and new methods to revitalize local communities by harnessing the intangible heritage, creating some special socializing conditions between the rural and the urban, reinterpreting culinary heritage for the new consumption habits, as well as attracting families with children in rural areas where there aren’t any young people. More information: www.mytransylvania.ro
Sibiu county, South Transylvania
Gastronomic events rediscover the cultural treasures and the traditions hidden in Transylvanian villages, to have a healthy diet based on recipes passed on from ancestors, to re-learn, to love the tranquility of the village and the time spent in nature, to support local producers and the communities visit, to socialize by eating together, to promote among visitors lesser known areas. Overall, the entire region acquires through this mosaic of events a yet unknown dimension – its culinary identity. The merit of this new concept is that it brings together three parties which so far have never met in an organized manner: small producers, local communities and tourists for the benefit of local producers, who otherwise have no market for their organic, healthy, fresh products; the residents of some forgotten villages because of the way the community is reinvigorated, ensuring an income for itself and getting actively involved in local tourism and visitors who stop by and discover a world of good tastes, specific traditions and old stories.
Since 2008, between April and October, there are five series of events organized according to the specificity of the area and the season. Around 23-30 gastronomic and alternative events in 65 Transylvanian villages: 'Transylvania Brunch' , 'Hârtibaciu – Târnave' , 'Picnic in Cindrel' , 'Dinner in Nature', and 'Flavours and Sounds of Transylvania'. These events creating reasons to visit non-tourist areas; provide research about the local culinary history and new methods to revitalize local communities by harnessing the intangible heritage, creating some special socializing conditions between the rural and the urban, reinterpreting culinary heritage for the new consumption habits, as well as attracting families with children in rural areas where there aren’t any young people. More information: www.mytransylvania.ro
SERBIA
Naive paintings and Slovakian folkore in Kovacica
Kovacica, Voivodina
In the village Kovacica, names of the streets, language at school and townhall, vestimentary, folkore and habits are all Slovaks. The Slovaks are glad to have their political and cultural rights well recognized, but they hope they can improve their representation at state level in Serbia. Tourism can be a way of good coexistence with the Serbian majority. The very traditional paintings and galleries in all the village, and the Pavel Babka museum are a good way to improve tourism. There are Folkloric festival (all nationalities of Voivodina), Exhibition of Naive paintings (Museum Pavel Babka) and Concert of Rom and Serbian Brass Band.
SPAIN
Traditional Catalan Cuisine of Tossa de Mar - a driving force for a sustainable food tourism
Costa Brava, Catalonia
This project propose that the food experiences for local, visitors and tourists based on networking strategies can contribute to reinforce the destination and local products and the traditional cuisine. The traditional agro-food production and the hunting, fishing and gathering practices in the mountains and coastal area of Tossa de Mar have characterized local products and the traditional cuisine of this Mediterranean village, the third destination of Costa Brava after Lloret de Mar and Roses.
Tossa de Mar is also one of the most active members involved in the project “Catalonia European Region of Gastronomy 2016” promoted by Generalitat of Catalonia, the regional government. Traditional cuisine in Tossa de Mar is mainly associated to the Catholic liturgical agenda, festive events and social practices expressed with specific meals to share with family, friends and invited people. Immaterial cultural heritage in the village is associated with a cultural tourism development with an interactive relationship between local people and visitors. The exception is the pilgrimage related to the St Sebastien. In this case, tourists are not accepted, only during the second day they can wait the arrival of the pilgrim’s father to the village.
More information: www.tossademar.cat
Costa Brava, Catalonia
This project propose that the food experiences for local, visitors and tourists based on networking strategies can contribute to reinforce the destination and local products and the traditional cuisine. The traditional agro-food production and the hunting, fishing and gathering practices in the mountains and coastal area of Tossa de Mar have characterized local products and the traditional cuisine of this Mediterranean village, the third destination of Costa Brava after Lloret de Mar and Roses.
Tossa de Mar is also one of the most active members involved in the project “Catalonia European Region of Gastronomy 2016” promoted by Generalitat of Catalonia, the regional government. Traditional cuisine in Tossa de Mar is mainly associated to the Catholic liturgical agenda, festive events and social practices expressed with specific meals to share with family, friends and invited people. Immaterial cultural heritage in the village is associated with a cultural tourism development with an interactive relationship between local people and visitors. The exception is the pilgrimage related to the St Sebastien. In this case, tourists are not accepted, only during the second day they can wait the arrival of the pilgrim’s father to the village.
More information: www.tossademar.cat
Nomination for ‘Destination of Sustainable Cultural Tourism 2016’ Award !
ECTN has opened a contest for nomination ‘Destination of Sustainable Cultural Tourism 2016’ Award to all tourism destinations for Cultural Tourism Development and Promotion in Europe and for the benefit of destinations, communities, businesses, citizens and visitors.
Theme for 2016 is ‘Intangible Heritage Tourism’ concerning results of actions which have been implemented and which have produced significant results and achievements by destinations with a focus on local, regional, state or European context.
The focus on theme ‘Intangible Heritage Tourism’ concerning results of actions which have been implemented and which have produced significant results and achievements by destination with a focus on local, regional, state and European contexts related to:
Winners will be recognized as examples of excellence inspiring other tourism destinations and stimulating further development of regional initiatives.
One overall winner and two runners-up will be awarded.
The Winners will be announced at the Award ceremony and receive the Award prizes during the international conference “Intangible Heritage: Incomparable Asset for Sustainable and Responsible Tourism Development’, to be held on 23 - 24 September 2016 in Guimarães, Portugal, organized by ECTN.
All candidates are invited to the ECTN annual Conference and the Award ceremony.
Who can apply?
The ECTN Award is open to all tourism destinations (including NGOs) across Europe.
Award Commission
The ECTN Award Commission (panel of judges) will be consisted of experts from various countries appointed by ECTN Board.
Award Criteria
The Award Commission will assess the quality of all applications according following five criteria:
Concluding remarks
The ECTN Award does not consist of any type of monetary prize and does not want to give any type of economic advantages to the applicants and winners.
It is a no-profit initiative. No financial or contractual obligations will arise for the ECTN members by the application to the Award.
Material submitted will be published with acknowledgement to the Applicant.
ECTN has opened a contest for nomination ‘Destination of Sustainable Cultural Tourism 2016’ Award to all tourism destinations for Cultural Tourism Development and Promotion in Europe and for the benefit of destinations, communities, businesses, citizens and visitors.
Theme for 2016 is ‘Intangible Heritage Tourism’ concerning results of actions which have been implemented and which have produced significant results and achievements by destinations with a focus on local, regional, state or European context.
The focus on theme ‘Intangible Heritage Tourism’ concerning results of actions which have been implemented and which have produced significant results and achievements by destination with a focus on local, regional, state and European contexts related to:
- Oral traditions (variety of spoken forms including proverbs; riddles; tales; nursery rhymes; legends; myths; epic songs and poems; charms; prayers; chants; songs; dramatic performances and more)
- Performing arts (such as traditional vocal and instrumental music; dance; theater; pantomime or sung verse and beyond)
- Social practices, rituals and festive events (worship rites; rites of passage; birth; wedding and funeral rituals; oaths of allegiance; traditional legal systems; traditional games; kinship and ritual kinship ceremonies; settlement patterns; seasonal ceremonies; practices specific to men or women only; hunting, fishing and gathering practices; a wide variety of expressions and physical elements: special gestures and words, recitations, songs or dances, special clothing, processions, animal sacrifice, special food)
- Knowledge and practices (festivals; languages and visual arts practices)
- Traditional craftsmanship (the skills involved in creating traditional craft objects)
Winners will be recognized as examples of excellence inspiring other tourism destinations and stimulating further development of regional initiatives.
One overall winner and two runners-up will be awarded.
The Winners will be announced at the Award ceremony and receive the Award prizes during the international conference “Intangible Heritage: Incomparable Asset for Sustainable and Responsible Tourism Development’, to be held on 23 - 24 September 2016 in Guimarães, Portugal, organized by ECTN.
All candidates are invited to the ECTN annual Conference and the Award ceremony.
Who can apply?
The ECTN Award is open to all tourism destinations (including NGOs) across Europe.
Award Commission
The ECTN Award Commission (panel of judges) will be consisted of experts from various countries appointed by ECTN Board.
Award Criteria
The Award Commission will assess the quality of all applications according following five criteria:
- Technical content of actions
- Evidence of success
- Sustainability of the actions
- Added value to Regional policies for Tourism Sustainability
- Contribution to Europe 2020 targets.
Concluding remarks
The ECTN Award does not consist of any type of monetary prize and does not want to give any type of economic advantages to the applicants and winners.
It is a no-profit initiative. No financial or contractual obligations will arise for the ECTN members by the application to the Award.
Material submitted will be published with acknowledgement to the Applicant.
