The Network has been established within the framework of the "Towards Excellence in Cultural Tourism” project, cofunded by the Europe for Citizens Programme of the European Union, Action 1 Active
Citizens for Europe, Measure 1.2. Networks of Twinned Towns. The project aims at fostering cooperation at European level between municipalities on the theme of intangible cultural heritage preservation an
d valorization through cultural tourism.The project proposal, which was developed by Association Euni Partners, together with experts from the Municipality of Sandanski, is funded for its maximum value of €139,000. The Municipality of Sandanski is the coordinator of the international initiative and the partners are Härryda Municipality, Sweden; Local Councils' Association, Malta; Sociedad de Desarrollo de Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain; Municipality of Sepino, Italy, and Municipality of Agia, Greece. Within the project will be developed an international network of towns, aiming at fostering cultural tourism and preservation of the European cultural heritage. The specific objectives of the project are: to establish a sustainable network of municipalities, cultural organizations, small businesses, and tourism centers; to promote sustainability, competitiveness, and respect of local identities; to reinforce the sense of European citizenship by strengthening the relations among European local communities. The international project will get together the public authorities, citizens, youth, seniors, artists and small and medium businesses, NGOs, cultural and tourism organizations from the six European states that are partners in the project. The project focuses on the intangible cultural heritage and traditional arts and crafts. Special attention will be given to intergenerational learning and active aging. Six different thematic events will be organized during the project duration of 18 months, with focus on active aging and intergenerational learning, valorization and continuation of traditional culture; fostering transfer of knowledge and know-how among generations; traditional culture and entrepreneurship. An international fair will be organized, where representatives of the small and medium business from the six states will have the opportunity to create sustainable partnerships, access new markets and exchange ideas. The Cultural Tourism Fair will be followed by a Festival of Cultures, which aims at creating connections among traditional artists and artisans. The festival will be integrated into the annual, international festival "Pirin Folk" in Sandanski and will allow citizens to taste the cultural richness and diversity of Europe.
