inTegRated mAnagemeNt modelS For archaEological paRks – TRANSFER

The overall aim of the project is to develop, transfer and disseminate a Common Governance Model for archaeological parks enhancing the preservation and valorisation of archaeological heritage within the Adrion area. Specific objectives are to: 1. Elaborate a governance model for sustainable preservation and valorisation of archaeological parks; 2 Identify economic sustainable activities that archaeological parks can generate (e.g. new tourist routes); 3. Develop and apply innovative ICT-based tools (e.g. augmented reality) in order to enhance the fruition of archaeological heritage and broaden its audiences. TRANSFER tackles the current lack of a model for valorizing and exploiting archaeological heritage integrated into wider local territorial development planning, going beyond the approach which mainly focuses on a mere conservation of archaeological heritage. Project outputs will be: a Common Sustainable Governance Model for archaeological parks; 6 Management Plans based on the Sustainable Governance Model; 6 Joint pilot actions, during which the Plans will be jointly tested, revised if necessary and finally adopted (one for each test area); a set of economic services and products and a set of ICT solutions aimed at valorizing the Archaeological heritage; a Strategy for sustainable preservation and valorisation of Archaeological Parks. The benefits for institutions, economic actors, associations and citizens will be the increased value of cultural heritage, the reduction of inter-institutional conflicts, and economic growth. A transnational approach ensures the representation of different actors/needs, crucial for the creation of a governance model that can be successfully be applied in all the different territories. The originality of the project lies in the bottom-up strategy applied to the management of archaeological heritage and in the integration between protection activities, territorial planning and economic progress.

The TRANSFER project makes a significant contribution to the development of science in the fields of archaeology and cultural heritage. By introducing interdisciplinary approaches that integrate archaeology, spatial planning, economics, and information and communication technology, the project enables the development of new methods for the management, research, and valorisation of archaeological heritage. This strengthens the scientific foundation for the sustainable preservation of cultural heritage, while also introducing innovative tools such as digital maps, interactive applications, and augmented reality, which support research and interpretation of archaeological sites. The project also facilitates international collaboration and knowledge exchange among researchers, institutions, and experts from the ADRION region, fostering a broader scientific network and enhancing research excellence. Moreover, TRANSFER contributes to knowledge transfer between academic and practical fields, combining theory, research, and application in the real-world management of archaeological parks. This allows for the development of new approaches, standards, and models that the scientific community can apply in other regions and disciplines. Overall, the project promotes innovation, interdisciplinarity, and the dissemination of knowledge, directly impacting the growth of the scientific field of archaeology and cultural heritage.

The TRANSFER project significantly contributes to the development of Slovenia by improving the management and valorisation of archaeological heritage. Through a Common Sustainable Governance Model for archaeological parks, it offers a comprehensive approach that goes beyond mere conservation, integrating spatial planning, economic activities, and sustainable local development. In Slovenia, the project directly supports archaeological sites such as Poetovio (Ptuj) by developing Management Plans that provide long-term guidelines for preservation, promotion, and use of cultural heritage. The project also promotes sustainable economic activities, such as cultural tourist routes and innovative services, contributing to the local economy and enhancing Slovenia’s recognition as a cultural tourism destination. TRANSFER also brings knowledge transfer and innovation, including the use of ICT tools such as augmented reality, which enhance the experience of heritage and broaden its audience. Cross-border cooperation with other ADRION region partners strengthens networking, exchange of best practices, and Slovenia’s role in the international cultural heritage arena. Overall, the TRANSFER project fosters sustainable development, innovation, and increased cultural heritage value, directly impacting quality of life and economic growth in Slovenian regions.