Project code: | BGRS0200048 |
Project call: | Call under Priority 2 - Enhancing regional competitiveness, incl. in the area of tourism |
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: | 914 820.17 € |
Project EU co-financing rate: | 85% |
Project start date: | 6/24/2025 |
Project end date: | 12/23/2026 |
Partners: | Lead partner: Municipality of Boljevac; Partner 2: Chiprovtsi Historical Museum; Partner 3: Association for tourism – promotion – Vidin; Partner 4: Regional development agency Eastern Serbia |
Project summary: | The project brings together partners from Bulgaria and Serbia with a shared goal: to increase the tourist appeal of the cross-border region of Vidin, Montana, Zaječar, and Bor. The focus is on preserving and promoting cultural and historical heritage through the use of modern digital technologies and ICT tools. Together, the partners are working toward balanced and sustainable development of museums and related infrastructure, creating a contemporary and inspiring cultural experience for visitors. Museums are not only guardians of history – they are essential parts of any region’s tourism offering. Today, however, museums face growing challenges in remaining competitive and relevant. Modern tourists expect more than static exhibitions. They seek memorable and enriching experiences, interactive displays, augmented and virtual reality, multilingual content, and accessible facilities. For many museums, adapting to these expectations is both a challenge and an opportunity. This project responds directly to that challenge by supporting the transition into the digital era. It proposes a set of concrete actions that will give a real boost to cultural tourism in the region. The Museum of the Timok Uprising in Boljevac will be reconstructed, and the Museum in Chiprovtsi will be renovated and revitalized. A multimedia product will be developed – a filmed reenactment of the “Old Chiprovtsi Wedding,” showcasing local traditions to a wider audience. An analysis titled "Museums in the Digital Age" will be prepared, along with a detailed action plan outlining short-, medium-, and long-term measures to improve digital services and online communication for cultural institutions in the region. A digital platform and mobile application will be created to showcase the cultural heritage of Eastern Serbia and Northwestern Bulgaria. The project also includes a broad digital promotional campaign to reach a larger audience. One of the most innovative components of the project is the creation of a cross-border 3D modelling and photogrammetry center. This will enable museums and cultural organizations to digitize and present their collections in modern, engaging ways. Augmented reality elements will be integrated into the tourist offer, allowing visitors to experience history in new and immersive ways. The project provides strong support for key stakeholders in the region – museums, cultural organizations, tour operators, local and regional authorities, businesses, media, and NGOs working in the fields of tourism and heritage. This support goes beyond equipment and investment – it also includes building digital capacity, encouraging cross-border cooperation, and creating shared tools for development and promotion. Because the project is cross-border in nature, it enables cultural sites from both sides of the border to be jointly promoted as a shared destination. This aligns with the expectations of modern travelers, who often seek multi-country routes and integrated experiences. By promoting cultural assets together, the region becomes more visible, attractive, and competitive. Ultimately, the project offers an innovative solution for joint cultural development: a shared, accessible, multilingual, and engaging cultural heritage experience. By combining support for cultural sites, digitalization of museums, a strong promotional campaign, and the creation of digital tools, the project helps to build a powerful and memorable tourist experience that showcases the uniqueness of this common cross-border region. |