European Heritage Youth Residency 2024 - Romania by Europa Nostra

EUROPEAN H H

EUROPEAN HERITAGE YOUTH RESIDENCY

MEETTHEPARTICIPANTS

ALIKICHAMALIDOU Greece

ANNAKOSKINEN Finnland

FABIOBELTOTTO Italy

JIAYAOJIANG

MADONAJALAGHONIA

MAELLEJULOU

MAREIKEHEROLD

MARTINAPIRRONE

EUROPEAN HERITAGE YOUTH RESIDENCY

MEETTHEPARTICIPANTS

Editor's Letter

This magazine was compiled as part of the European Heritage Youth Residency, organised by Europa Nostra in collaboration with Via Transilvanica and Ambulance for Monuments with the support of the Creative Europe ProgrammeoftheEuropeanUnion.

The European Heritage Youth Residencies programme is organised in the framework of Europa Nostra’s Network Project European Cultural Heritage Agora “Empowering Europe’s Civil Society Movement for Heritage”, cofunded by the Creative Europe Programme of theEuropeanUnion.

This residency invited 15 young heritage stakeholders aged 18-35 to explore sustainable tourism and cultural heritage in Romania from June 27th - July 3rd 2024 The residency combined carpentry activities, hiking and presentations to allow participants to gain hands-on experience of sustainable tourism practices in Romania and learn more about the localculture

As part of the residency, participants created three outputs using photography, video and writing. This is the written output, which uses a range of styles to reflect on the impact of the residency

From creative writing to articles to personal reflection, the variety of written outputs reflects the different interpretations of the residencyforeachperson

We hope you enjoy reading this magazine and that it inspires you to think about heritageinnewways.

Thank you to the teams at Europa Nostra, Via Transilvanica and Ambulance for Monuments fortheirhospitalityandgenerosity

Wehadagreattime!

Rosa Chalfen

patricia Horlacher

Madona Jalaghonia

Uula Neitola

Jasna Popovic

Fabio Beltotto

MEET THE PARTICIPANTS

There is an amazing team of young heritage professionals behind this magazine. And this is your chance to meetthem

EDITORS LETTER

There is so much to tell about a weeklong youth residency dedicated to cultural heritage and sustainable tourism The team wanted to highlight herethemostimportantpoints

YOUTH IN HERITAGE

byJasnaPopović

Young professionals are being more and more active in the heritage field and their proactive approach is shapingthefutureofthesector.

PARTICIPANT REFLECTIONS

byUulaNeitola

Read about how the participants praised the residency program for its impactful focus on sustainability, cultural heritage, and immersive experiences

FIELD NOTES FROM AN ART HISTORIAN

byMadonaJalaghonia

Dive into a journey from Budapest to Romania, featuring mesmerizing sunflower fields, historical and cultural sites, and enriching experiences of volunteering and exploringtheViaTransilvanicatrail

METATARSAL

byRosaChalfen

A poem that vividly captures the essence of volunteering at the EvangelicalChurchinRoadeș,bringing to life the dedication and artistry involvedinpreservingthishistoricsite

COMMUNITY IS THE KEY

byFabioBeltotto

This article how community engagement is essential for sustainable local development in Transylvania.

25 THE FORGOTTEN VILLAGE THAT LEARNED TO REMEMBER

byPatriciaHorlacher

In the heart of rural Romania, the village of Viscri stands as a living testament to the enduring spirit of tradition and resilience, inviting us to uncoveritsrich,storiedpast.

PARTNERS & THANK YOU

A big thank you to the partners for their crucial support in making the European Heritage Youth Residency a success!

29 IMPRESSIONS

Find stunning photographs taken by our photography team, capturing the vibrant atmosphere and immersive experiences during the residency, bringing to life the essence of our journeythroughTransylvania

YOUTH IN HERITAGE

THE WIND OF CHANGE IN THE SECTOR

byJasnaPopović,ESACHSecretary

Today, more than ever, young people are actively engaged in protecting and managing our cultural and natural environments. They are connecting these efforts to crucial issues like sustainable development, climate change, civic participation, and cultural tourism. Ever more prominent, the younger generation of heritage professionals is showcasing its interest in the vast topics within the heritage field by actively participating in seminars, conferences, and residencies organised acrossEurope.

Many young professionals have channelled all that enthusiasm and willingness to grow into an active part of the sector, through their involvement in ESACH, a youth-led and youth-oriented network of students and young heritage professionals with a passion for cultural heritage. This informal activism and volunteering enables not only essential first steps in the sector for many recent graduates, but also the opportunity to work with a network of peers that would follow them in their future endeavours. Finally, it gives the unique chance to connect with more established colleagues and get to know the work of many well-knownstakeholdersatnationalandEuropeanlevels.

Since 2022, declared European Year of Youth, there has been considerable qualitative and quantitative progress regarding the opportunities for young professionals to participate at heritage-related events, to be on the stage and be heard, to be able to exchange their opinions and views with others. This positive development has continued throughout 2023 and 2024 with the Europa Nostra initiative of the EuropeanHeritageYouthResidency.

A WEEK IN THE ROMANIAN MOUNTAINS

From June 27 to July 3 (2024), a group of heritage professionals aged between 18 and 35, had the opportunity to participate in the second edition of the European Heritage Youth Residency, in the organisation of Europa Nostra, together with Tășuleasa Social and Asociația Monumentum, both active NGOs and laureates of the European Heritage Award. 13 participants enjoyed an intense week in the Romanian rural areas in the region of Transylvania, meeting local stakeholders, working on the restoration of a gothic church, walking a sector of Via Transilvanica, and engaging in the debates on the links between tourism andculturalheritage.

This immersive experience allowed participants from all over Europe to interact with their Romanian peers working on the conservation, local activists advocating for the preservation of their unique cultural heritage, internationally patronaged stakeholders active in their support of the local community, and dedicated volunteers working on tracing alternativeandhiddentracksthroughRomaniancountryside.

But sharing was not one sided and participants were given the space to present their own projects and initiatives, exchange their experience and data, as well as talk about their impressions and thoughts that they have gathered during the residency. Lively debates on the current situation in relation to cultural tourism, as well as the possible positive and negatives developing trends occupied most of the leisure time. Additional gastronomical and folkloricelementscomplementedthe experience and contributed to the creation of lasting memories and friendships.

ENSURING A SUSTAINABLE CHANGE - INCLUSION OF YOUNGER GENERATION IN THE SECTOR

In order to contribute to the growth of a secure, stable, and durable inclusion of young heritage professionals in the sector, an indepth study of the current situation was conducted in 2022. The main goal was precisely to accurately assess where do young professionals stand, what are their aspirations, and how they see the evolution and growth of the sector. Results and conclusions of that survey were the bases for the Position Paper “Youth for the Future of Cultural Heritage”. The document is the result of the collective work of a diverse group of over 40 young professionals and cultural heritage enthusiasts (both contributors and reviewers) and supported by 10 institutional partners. It was published and presentedinSeptember2023.

heritage preservation across Europe and beyond. The document opens a debate on the future development of the sector based on 5 principles that would secure a more inclusive, collaborative, sustainable, and strongerfuture. The position paper draws attention to the pressing challenges posed by climate change and its profound impact on cultural heritage sites, artefacts, and traditions. It highlights the urgency of taking immediate action to protect and conserve these invaluable treasures for future generations.

the ever more present question of digitalisation while at the same time advocating for the intergenerational exchanges as one of the ways to make the sector moreresilient.

Allofthisisonlythebeginningand an invitation to all interested parties, from passionate individuals to established stakeholders to join the debate and to, by implementing these principles, start creating a better future for the cultural heritage sector.

PARTICIPANT VOICES

by Uula Neitola

The residency program in Romania has left a profound impact on its participants, who praised the initiative for its focus on sustainability, cultural heritage,andimmersiveexperiences.

INSPIRATION AND RESILIENCE

Martina Pirrone highlighted her meeting with Caroline Fernolend, President Mihai Eminescu Trust, in Viscri village as the most memorable part of the residency. "Her passion and strength towards the revitalization of her village were deeply inspiring," Martina said. "She showed us how tourism can support the local population, both in reconnecting to their cultural roots and providing economic aid."

Martina's perception of Romania also changed significantly during the trip. "I learned more about the strong and resilient character of its people and discovered many details of Transylvania's history that I did not knowbefore,"sheexplained.

"This experience has inspired me to return one day, and I believe others willfeelthesame"

SUSTAINABLE FOCUS

One of the aspects Martina appreciated most was the residency's emphasis on sustainability. "Ambulance for Monuments supports Romanian heritage in extreme danger, ensuring a future thanks to volunteers," she noted. "Tasuleasa Social has implemented many projects focusing onaslowerlifestyleandadeeprespect for nature. The Via Transilvanica project, in particular, allows people to explorethisregionataslowpace."

EXCEEDING EXPECTATIONS

Rosa Chalfen found the residency filled with memorable moments, citing a storm at sunset over Tasuleasa as a standout experience. "It was incredibly beautiful and a reminder of nature's power,” she recalled.

Although Rosa had no strong preconceptions about Romania, the country surpassed any expectations she might have had.

she said. "I will be recommending it to everyone I know."

Rosa also praised the residency's hands-on approach to learning.

she emphasized. "This practical engagement reinforces the importance of the industry and it real impact on local communities."

Overall, both participants expresse deep appreciation for the residenc program's focus on sustainabilit hands-on experiences, and th opportunity to connect with loca initiatives and culture. The program was not only enrichin and transformative but also inspire them to continue supportin cultural and environmental efforts i Romania.

by Madona Jalaghonia

GOLDEN

HORIZONS: SUNFLOWER FIELDS FROM THE BUDAPEST TO ROMANIA ROAD

As the train rolled from Budapest to Cluj-Napoca, the endless fields of sunflowers captivated me, leaving an indelible first impression of Romania.Thesegoldenexpanses,bathedinsunlight,seemedlikeawarm welcometoalandrichinhistoryandbeauty.

Upon arrival, our time was limited, so we visited only one site: The Evangelical Church in Roadeș. This remarkable Gothic-style church, constructed in the 14th century, is part of the Transylvanian Saxon fortified churches, renowned for their defensive structures and medieval architecture.

The historical significance of The Evangelical Church is further highlighted by the ongoing conservation efforts of Asociația Monumentum.Thisorganizationworksdiligentlytopreservethechurch's legacy, ensuring that its architectural splendor and historical importance endureforfuturegenerations.

SHARK SHAPE DETAIL

The next day we had the unique opportunity to volunteer with Ambulance for Monuments at the Roades Evangelical Fortified Church. Our activities focused primarily on carpentry, but the experience extended far beyond simple woodworking.

One component that threatened to collapse and endanger both locals and visitors was the open bell tower. The portico roof above the church entry had improperly placed tiles in a single layer, allowing rainwater to seep in. As a result, this caused damage to both the roof and the plastered brick vault at the cornice level. The intervention involved replacing the degraded laths and fishtail roof tiles with identical ones in shape,appearance,andarrangement. One of the most challenging tasks we encountered was carving a particular roof detail that resembled a shark shape, as it was named by one of the volunteers. Its complex and irregular shape required meticulous attention and precision. Despite the difficulty, it was immensely rewarding to see this unique piece seamlessly integrated into the roof, contributing to the overallrestorationeffort.

Volunteering at the Roades Evangelical Fortified Church was an incredible experience. It was humbling to work on such an important piece of history, knowing that our efforts were contributing to the preservation of this beautiful and culturallysignificantsite.

appreciation for the skill and dedication required in historical conservation. The challenge of replicating traditional techniques and materials was daunting, but it also made the work all the more meaningful. Our volunteer work at the Roades Evangelical Fortified Church was not just about carpentry it was about connecting with history, engaging with the community, and preserving a vital piece of cultural heritage.

CASĂ DE PIATRĂ

Viscri, the nucleus village, was declared a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1999 and is the home of Caroline Fernolend, the inspiration of much of the Saxon Village conservation movement, and a small but active group of young SaxonsandRomanians. The church, domestic and agricultural architecture of the Saxon villages has strong integrity, coherence and quality. Houses and churches that were formerly built of timber are now built of brick, stone andtimberframe,butretainthe

style and character that the first Saxon settlers brought to Transylvania in the twelfth century. The use of lime mortar, the hipped roofs, the lime wash colours, the clay roof tiles, the gateways to the courtyards and the cellars are some of the many traditional features that have survived for centuries. In the cellars of many houses, the lime pits in which lime was (and still is in some cases) traditionally slaked, andstillbefound.

Anumberofthehousefacadeshave changed over the centuries and there are good examples of Art NouveauandArtDecoplasterwork

that reveal some of the changing personality of the villages. Garish colours are rapidly replacing the traditional mellow ochres, greens and blues. Many of the vast old timber frame barns that enclose the rear of the courtyards are falling into disrepair as the skills, money and incentive to repair them are hard to find.

Thevillagestreetsandsquaresarethe focus of public life and spaces for meeting, trading, playing and simply being part of the village. They provide thesettingfortheanimatedprospect: the living, the landscape in which children play alongside grazing horses, sheep, chickens and passing cards.

FEELING OF CLOSENESS TO VIA TRANSILVANICA

During our exploration with Tășuleasa Social along the Via Transilvanica trail, the experience was more than just a journey. It was a deep immersion into the natural and cultural heritage of Romania. The title, "Feeling of Closeness to Via Transilvanica," resonates with the essence of our adventure, capturing the sense of connection we felt with thisremarkabletrail.

The Via Transilvanica project, spearheaded by Tășuleasa Social, exemplifies sustainable tourism at its finest. As we hiked through pristine landscapes,eachstepbroughtuscloser to understanding the rich tapestry of Romania’s countryside. Local cuisine became a delightful part of our journey, offering flavors that reflected the region'straditionsandhospitality.

The colleague's mention of “feeling closeness to Via Transilvanica” encapsulates our shared sentiment of being enveloped by the trail’s natural beauty and cultural significance. It was exciting to witness firsthand how this project not only promotes eco-friendly tourism but also celebrates local heritage Our experiences tasting local cuisine and hiking in such picturesque surroundings left an indelible impression, fostering a profound appreciation for Romania’s hidden treasures.

Exploring Via Transilvanica was more than a hike, it was a journey that connected us to the heart of Romania, leaving us inspired by its landscapes, enriched by its traditions, and eager to support initiatives that preserve its naturalandculturallegacy.

metatarsal

by Rosa Chalfen

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT

ENGAGING TRANSYLVANIA'S LOCAL COMMUNITIES FOR DEVELOPMENT

by Fabio Beltotto

When we talk about local development through cultural heritage, one thing becomes crystal clear: community engagement is non-negotiable. Over the years, every project I've been part of has adhered to this fundamental rule, focusing on sustainability and strategic local development. My time in Transylvania further reinforced this awareness. Known for its fortified churches, medieval castles, and breathtaking landscapes, Transylvania boasts a rich cultural and natural heritage that has drawn visitors from around the globe.

The community's sense of revival, perhaps sparked since the revolution and amplified in recent years, has motivated Romanians to rediscover their history and cultural heritage from the grassroots level. The 2005 Faro Convention provided further momentum to this movement, revolutionizing how cultural heritage is valued and approached. Today, the pivotal role of communities in defining and managing heritage is widely acknowledged.

Transylvania's fortified churches for instance represent a striking example of community dedication to heritage conservation: the preservation of this monuments often hinges on local initiatives like the Ambulança Monumentu association, which mobilizes volunteers to protect at-risk heritage. The "Ambulance for Monuments" project, launched in 2016, aims to save hundreds of historic buildings in Romania. These emergency interventions involve experts, students, and volunteer craftsmen, supported by local communities and other organizations.

Eugen Vaida (Architect at Ambulança Monumentu) emphasized how community involvement is essential for preservation of both tangible and intangible cultural heritage. During our residency, he guided us through these impactful projects, showing how the local community acts as a guardian of traditions, preventing them from being lost forever. The association collaborates with locals

to preserve knowledge and practices like traditional ceramic tile production. By using ancient techniques and materials in restoration, they train local professionals to keep these skills alive. Workshops on tile conservation and production are organized to engage young professionals and community students, fostering a deeper appreciation for preserving the authenticity of buildings and cultural landscapes.

Another noteworthy example of community commitment is Viscri village, inhabited by a German Saxon community. With support from NGOs, Viscri's residents restored their UNESCO-recognized fortified church and developed a sustainable tourism model that directly benefits the local community. This model thrives on collaboration among residents, regional and national authorities, and international organizations, ensuring th t t i ll

While community involvement is vital for heritage conservation, it also significantly impacts tourism. Local communities have embraced sustainable practices to ensure tourism complements rather than compromises the heritage they strive to protect. Initiatives like rural tourism allow visitors to immerse themselves in the daily life of Transylvanian villages, staying in traditional homes and participating in local activities. This opens new horizons for the community while offering visitors an authentic and enriching experience.

An exemplary project in this regard is the Transylvanian Trail (Via Transilvanica), a hiking route spanning the region. Its creation involved intensive collaboration with local communities. The responsible association (Tășuleasa Social) conceived the Via Transilvanica as a gift to the community, which now shares the responsibility for its maintenance. Local volunteers and visitors collectively undertake upkeep, promoting slow and sustainable tourism.

Engaging local communities also includes raising awareness and educating about sustainable tourism. Schools participate in volunteer projects such as tree planting and trail maintenance. This not only aids in heritage preservation but also fosters a strong sense of belonging and responsibility among the youth.

g y g many attitudes shifted when they started witnessing the economic benefits and positive impact of tourism. The return of young people who had left Romania to start tourismrelated ventures is a positive sign of this change. Ironically, the COVID-19 pandemic had a beneficial impact on local tourism. With Romanians unable to travel abroad, there was increased demand for wellness experiences and a rediscovery of their roots, boosting domestic tourism. This, in turn, revitalized local communities' connection to their history.

Active participation of local communities in promoting "transformative tourism" plays a crucial role in the contemporary landscape. This form of tourism meets the growing demand for experiences that not only satisfy the desire to explore new places but also enrich personal well-being and cultural identity. Through encounters with resilient communities and the rediscovery of familial roots, travelers are encouraged to reflect on more

consumption habits, and authentic relationships. This vision resonates deeply in Transylvania, where its lands are not just historical and natural treasures but living canvases of a rich and ancient culture. Here, we become modernday pilgrims, unbound by conventional tourism norms but driven by curiosity to discover, learn, and engage with local communities to better understand the social and cultural fabric that defines every corner of this region.

Traveling through Transylvania thus becomes a unique opportunity for profound connection with people and places, opening new perspectives and allowing oneself to be guided by the historical traces permeating the land. This approach not only enriches individual experiences but also contributes to the sustainable development of local communities, empowering them as key players in tourism hospitality and environmental enhancement.

COMMUNITY EMPOWERMENT

by Patricia Horlacher

Our quest to delve deeper into the cultural heritage of rural Romania leads us through rolling countryside hills, emerald green valleys, and adventurous back roads. Arriving in Viscri feels like blowing dust off an old book that has been waiting to be picked from a shelf for a long time This village has a history stretching back to the 12th century, was initially inhabited by Székelys and later colonized by Saxons of Transylvania. For centuries, it remained untouched and almost forgotten.

As the dust settles between the cracks of the cobbled streets that meander throughthisvillage,aprofound

realization sets in: behind the colorful facades and cheerful smiles lies a history stained with sadness and heartbreak.

In the 12th century, King Géza II of Hungary invited Germans to settle and defend the relatively sparsely populated Transylvania The people who arrived were not all Saxons; they came from the entire German-speaking region. Their story throughout history has been one of searching for community, belonging, and freedom. Under Nicolae Ceaușescu's communist dictatorship, most of the Saxons emigrated to West Germany; their departurewassupportedbythe

Romanian regime, as the German government effectively paid Romania a ransom for them. Years later, a few brave souls returned to the places they had longcalledhome.

RECLAIMING HERITAGE

Callousedhandsandheavyheartsbegan to sort through the emotional rubble of a time long gone. These traumatic stories were overgrown with ivy, fertilized by hurt and heartbreak. Yet, a childlike boldness, a profound sense of duty, and a hunger for change allowed these people to reclaim their heritage. By opening their doors, giving new meaning to traditions, and breathing new life into the community, the village hasbeenforeverchanged. The blacksmith brothers will show you how they make horseshoes and nails the old-fashioned way, while the hardworking Gheorghita will explain howheburnshandmadebricksandtiles in an incandescent earth oven. Locals still use horse carts, and you can always go for a ride to the pastures outside the village. In the evenings, you'll enjoy a mouth-watering dinner prepared with freshlocalingredients.

LESSONS FROM THE FORGOTTEN VILLAGE

The forgotten village that learned to remember teaches us that, perhaps, in order to preserve and safeguard, we need to loosen our grip on the past and lettheivygrow.Viscriisnotjustavillage; it is a living museum of resilience and reinvention. The people of Viscri have shown that by embracing their heritage with an open heart and a willingness to adapt, they can breathe new life into theirtraditionsandcommunity.

In Viscri, history is not confined to textbooks or museums; it is woven into the fabric of daily life. The revival of traditional crafts, such as blacksmithing and brick-making, is not merely a nod to the past but a vital part of the present. These crafts are taught to the younger generation, ensuring that the skills and knowledge are passed down and preserved. The community’s commitment to sustainability and self-sufficiency, using locally sourced materials and traditional methods, serves as an example of how to live harmoniously with nature and one’s heritage.

Viscri's transformation highlights the importance of community and collective effort. The villagers’ decision to open their homes to touristsandsharetheirstorieshasnot only brought economic benefits but has also fostered a sense of pride and unity.Bywelcomingoutsiders,they

havecreatedabridgebetweenthepast and the present, allowing visitors to experience a way of life that is both timeless and dynamic.Viscri’s story teaches us that heritage is not static; it evolves and adapts. The village’s ability to integrate modern practices while maintaining its historical essence demonstrates that tradition and innovation can coexist. This balance is crucial in a rapidly changing world where cultural identities are often at riskofbeingdilutedorlost.

Today, Viscri stands as a proud example of the enduring spirit of the Saxons, a testament to resilience and reverence. Itremindsusthatthepastisasourceof strength and inspiration, not a burden. By learning from Viscri, we understand that preserving cultural heritage requires flexibility, creativity, and a deep respect for the stories and experiences that shape our communities.

THANK YOU!

TO OUR PARTNERS FOR MAKING THIS POSSIBLE

We thank our partners for their support and commitment to sustainable tourism in rural Romania! We extend our heartfelt thanks to each of you for your invaluable collaboration in making the European Heritage Youth Residency a remarkable success. Your efforts and support played a crucial role in bringing together 13 young European heritage professionals to explore sustainable tourism and cultural heritage in Romania.

Special thanks the Creative Europe Programme of the European Union and to Via Transilvanica and Ambulance for Monuments for coorganizing and facilitating this enriching residency. The combination of carpentry activities, hiking, and presentations gave the participants hands-on experience and a deeper understanding of sustainable tourism practices and local culture.

Your dedication to preserving and promoting cultural heritage is truly inspiring. Together, we have taken significant steps toward fostering a sustainable and vibrant future for heritage tourism.

Thank you!