Re-discovering Cultural Treasures of Old Royal Montenegro

This project targets indigenous people and SMEs from the 4 "nahija" districts of the Old Royal Montenegro (Crmnička, Katunska, Riječka and Lješanska nahija) who are either producers of local traditional products or owners of old authentic buildings, stone-built houses, traditional restaurants, etc.

During this 18-month project, cultural treasures of the Old Royal Montenegro will be re-discovered in order to enhance the tourist draw of the region, economic diversification and revitalization as well as social cohesion.

More specifically, the project will facilitate inter-cultural dialogue and cooperation between Montenegrin and German stakeholders resulting in: a new cultural tourism offer, raising awareness and creating linkages among stakeholders in the region and among local and national authorities.

Having in mind that the preservation of cultural heritage is a crucial component of identity and self-understanding, linking a local community to its past, the Centre for Sustainable Tourism Initiatives (CSTI) has identified certain gaps and problems that would be addressed by this project and would result in:

• Identified traditional cultural tourism products and services including at least a concept for a new product; "a thematic route"
• Improved knowledge and raised awareness on the importance of cultural heritage and cultural tourism business opportunities
• One new product launched on the tourism market; "a thematic route"

The partner in this project is Naturpark Schwarzwald from Germany with whom CSTI will exchange knowledge between local communities in Germany and Montenegro, that will result in improved knowledge of Schwarzwald's cultural activities and their best practices in Montenegro. It is very important to stress that Schwarzwald was one of the lesser developed regions in Germany that has succeeded in becoming one of the leading tourism destinations based on presenting its cultural heritage and traditional products. This example is a perfect showcase on how innovative approaches and creativity can foster positive changes in community development.

This project is funded by the European Union contributing 90% of the total, 8% from GTZ and 2% from the Ministry of Tourism and the National Tourism Organization in Montenegro, and will be managed by the Delegation of the European Union in Montenegro and implemented by CSTI.