THEMATIC CASTLE ROUTE 2: Cross-border cooperation for the promotion of castles and mansions in the Szabolcs-Szatmár-Bereg, Ivano-Frankivsk, and Satu Mare regions
Bridging history and modern tourism, the Satu Mare County Intercommunity Development Association is leading the CULT.ROUTE – Thematic Castle Route 2 project, working alongside the Department of Investment Policy, Projects, International Relations, Tourism, and Promotion of the Ivano-Frankivsk Local Council (Ukraine), the Municipality of Fehérgyarmat (Hungary), and the town of Livada in Satu Mare County. The project aims to strengthen cultural cooperation by expanding the thematic castle route, which promotes the shared cultural heritage of the cross-border region. By extending the thematic castle route previously developed under the SMAR.T.OURISM project to include two new border regions within the program area, the project will support economic development, social inclusion, and social innovation through culture and sustainable tourism.
The project includes:
- the renovation of the dendrological park surrounding the Vécsey Castle in Livada
- the rehabilitation of the roof of the Tapay Mansion in Fehérgyarmat
- the expansion of the thematic castle route by acquiring IT equipment for promotional purposes
- the development of an integrated website to enhance the visibility of the route in the cross-border area
- the organization of a guided tour in the city of Ivano-Frankivsk (Ukraine)
- experience exchanges for cultural professionals
- a cross-border castle festival in Livada
- the celebration of the European Heritage Days in Ivano-Frankivsk.
Beyond strengthening tourism, the project will generate long-term benefits for local communities by fostering job opportunities in cultural tourism, stimulating entrepreneurship, and encouraging cross-border partnerships in heritage management. The restoration and promotion of historical landmarks will enhance regional identity, support cultural preservation, and contribute to the socio-economic resilience of the regions involved. The total budget of the project is €758,832.10, of which €682,948.89 is funded by the European Union through the Interreg VI-A Next Hungary-Slovakia-Romania-Ukraine Program. The project implementation period is 24 months, starting on February 3, 2025. Throughout its implementation, the initiative will improve accessibility to historical sites, strengthen cross-border relations, and ensure that cultural heritage remains an essential and valuable part of the region’s future.
As the project unfolds, cultural enthusiasts, history lovers, and local communities alike are invited to immerse themselves in the vibrant legacy of this cross-border initiative. From restored historical landmarks to engaging cultural events, the project offers a unique opportunity to experience the rich heritage of the region firsthand. Those interested can follow its progress and take part in the journey by attending key events, including the much-anticipated Cross-Border Castle Festival in Livada.
For further details about the project and media inquiries, please contact:
Satu Mare County Intercommunity Development Association
Contact Person: Nicoleta Lasan
Position: Executive Director
Phone: 0040742921114
Email: adijudetsm@yahoo.com
Website: www.adijudetulsatumare.ro
To learn more about the Interreg VI-A Next Hungary-Slovakia-Romania-Ukraine Programme, visit: https://next.huskroua-cbc.eu/.
This press release was produced with the financial support of the European Union. Its contents are the sole responsibility of Satu Mare County Intercommunity Development Association and do not necessarily reflect the views of the European Union.
