Priority axis / Specific objective: | Priority 2 - Integrated development of border region Specific objective RSO5.2 - Fostering the integrated and inclusive social, economic and environmental local development, culture, natural heritage, sustainable tourism and security, in areas other than urban areas |
Type of project: | Investment and soft measures |
Project duration in months: | 18 months |
Project final contract amount: | € 843 903 |
Project EU co-financing rate: | 75.31% |
Project start date: | 6/24/2025 |
Project end date: | 12/23/2026 |
Partners: | Lead partner: Culture Centre Pirot; Partner 2: Tourist Organisation Pirot; Partner 3: Munipicality of Pravets; Partner 4: NGO MIV (Local initiative for Varshets) |
Project summary: | The project brings together the efforts of the municipalities of Pirot, Varshets and Pravets in developing a new model for sustainable tourism with a focus on young people, outdoor education, and the use of the region’s natural potential. The idea is to create a shared cross-border platform that promotes tourism in an innovative and sustainable way, supports local entrepreneurship, and combines culture, nature, and education. At the heart of the project is the establishment of a new tourist and educational centre in the village of Temska – a picturesque location at the foot of the Stara Planina mountain, just 15 kilometres from Pirot. The area is rich in natural and cultural heritage – from Roman and medieval archaeological sites to the 14th-century Monastery of St. George, locally known as Temska Monastery. Nearby natural attractions include the Bukovački Dol waterfall and the recreational area near the Temac hydropower station. Temska is already a hub for youth-focused activities. Since 2008, it has hosted the International Scientific Research Camp “Stara Planina”, which brings together students and young researchers from different countries, along with the popular Stara Planina Food Festival, which celebrates local culinary traditions. The creation of the new centre will build on these existing initiatives and turn Temska into a key location for educational and eco-oriented tourism. The project benefits from the experience of Varshets, a municipality with a long tradition in spa and wellness tourism based on its rich mineral springs and natural surroundings. Through structured training and the exchange of best practices, this knowledge will be shared with Pirot, helping to strengthen the capacity of the local tourism sector on both sides of the border. The municipality of Pravets is also actively involved in the initiative, contributing with its focus on sustainable development and green policies. The participation of young people from Varshets and Pravets will help promote Temska and the wider region among Bulgarian visitors, while encouraging the cross-border flow of people and ideas. The new centre will provide space for camps, educational programmes, cultural events and training in a natural setting, far from the noise of the city and in harmony with the environment. It will not only be a place for learning and inspiration, but also a driver for the local economy – offering new opportunities in accommodation, gastronomy, handicrafts and tourism services. The project responds both to current trends in tourism outside major urban areas and to the need for new infrastructure in the Pirot region. It will contribute to the creation of a sustainable tourism product, the development of local communities, and the better use of the cultural and natural assets of the cross-border region. |