Promotion of intangible heritage and national culture in Romania and Republic of Moldova

Programme 2021 - 2027 Interreg VI-A NEXT Romania - Rep.Moldova

Date of latest update: 2026-01-27

Description

Description (EN):

The "KULtura" project is an innovative initiative designed to foster cultural heritage promotion and bolster tourism across the border regions of Romania and the Republic of Moldova. This project emerges in response to the common challenge within the programme area: the underutilization of rich intangible cultural heritage as a means to stimulate cross-border tourism and cooperation. The overall objective is to promote cultural heritage at a bilateral level between Romania and the Republic of Moldova by developing common actions to increase the number of tourists and organizations cooperating across borders during the implementation of the project. The project seeks to increase the number of tourists and organizations cooperating across borders during its implementation. The expected change is a significant enhancement in the recognition, appreciation, and engagement with the intangible cultural heritage of the cross-border area, leading to an increase in tourism and a strengthened collaborative network of cultural organizations. This includes a marked rise in the visibility of cultural assets, improved cross-border cultural cooperation, and the creation of sustainable tourism models that leverage cultural heritage for economic development. The "KULtura" project adopts a comprehensive, cross-border approach, recognizing that the shared cultural heritage between Romania and the Republic of Moldova transcends national boundaries and requires collaborative efforts for its effective promotion and valorization. This approach involves: Jointly tackling the underexplored potential of intangible cultural heritage in fostering tourism and economic growth; Collaborative organization of cultural events and campaigns to showcase the rich intangible heritage of the regions; Development of an interactive tourist route map to guide visitors through significant cultural sites across the border; Creation of architectural guidelines to preserve traditional rural environments, enhancing the authenticity of the tourist experience. A cross-border approach is essential to address these aims due to the shared nature of the cultural heritage and the mutual benefits of increased tourism. This strategy facilitates the pooling of resources, expertise, and promotional efforts, creating a unified and compelling cultural tourism offering that attracts a broader audience than isolated national efforts could achieve. Unlike projects focusing solely on physical sites, "KULtura" emphasizes the intangible aspects of culture, such as traditions, crafts, and folklore, bringing these to the forefront of the tourism experience. The project pioneers in developing cultural competencies across borders, ensuring that stakeholders on both sides are equipped to jointly valorize and promote their shared heritage. It breaks new ground by elaborating architectural guidelines tailored to the local specifics of the rural environment in Southern Moldova and Romania, ensuring development respects and enhances traditional architectural styles. The establishment of a cross-border tourism network and the organization of cultural trips represent a novel approach to creating sustainable tourism models that are deeply rooted in cultural exchange and cooperation. The project aspires to transform the current situation by creating a vibrant, cross-border cultural tourism sector that not only contributes to the economic development of the regions involved but also fosters a deeper understanding and appreciation of their shared cultural heritage. Through its innovative approaches and collaborative framework, "KULtura" sets a new standard for how intangible cultural heritage can be harnessed to drive transnational cooperation and tourism.

Actual Achievements (EN):

During the reporting period, Tulucești Commune (LP1) fulfilled its role as Lead Partner by coordinating implementation and ensuring strong project visibility. On 7 May 2025, LP1 organized the official launching conference of the KULtura project, bringing together 46 representatives of local authorities, NGOs, cultural institutions, and media, an event that marked the project’s official start and strengthened the cross-border partnership. Between 18–20 July 2025, LP1 supported the organization of a folkloric research mission dedicated to the unique custom “Pomul de Sf. Ilie,” . The involvement of PP2 started with Activity 1.1 – Project Launching Conference, held on 7 May 2025 at the Cultural Center in Tulucești. A major milestone was achieved through Activity 1.2, implemented between 18–20 July 2025. PP2 organized a folkloric research mission dedicated to documenting and promoting the unique custom of “Pomul de Sf. Ilie”, an ancestral ritual still preserved in the communities around Lake Brateș. To ensure visibility, PP2 issued a press release announcing the event (15 July 2025).PP2 implemented Activity 1.3, by organizing the Cultural Symposium in Sivița on 20 July 2025. The symposium gathered 72 participants, including project partners, cultural specialists, and community representatives. During the first reporting period, PP3 – ACTIE (Cross-Border Cooperation and European Integration Agency) made significant progress across areas of project management, communication, and implementation of key activities, thereby contributing directly to the achievement of Work Package 1 .ACTIE team members (project manager, financial manager, and a volunteer) took part in the launch events held on May 7th, 2025 in Tulucesti and Sivita, contributing to early visibility and stakeholder engagement.ACTIE was represented by Stela Bunescu at the Cultural Symposium organized on July 20th, 2025, in Sivita, Romania, facilitating cross-border cultural dialogue and stakeholder networking.ACTIE led the early initiation of the Architectural Guidelines (Activity 1.5) by launching the procurement process and signing a contract with the Romanian Order of Architects. During the first reporting period, PP4 Valeni Village Hall carried out the following activities: Approved project staff, job descriptions, signing labour contracts.The mayor of The Valeni Village Hall and Project manager took part in the launching conference, held on 7 May 2025, in Tulucesti village, Romania. PP4 participated in Activity 1.2.

Project outputs: 1(EN)
Joint Action Plan to improve the tourism potential of the cross-border area(EN)
Endowment of three objectives of cultural interest in Romania and the Republic of Moldova(EN)
Website: https://ro-md.net/en/programme-2021-2027

Thematic information

Cultural heritage and arts Tourism

Priority: (VI-A_Ro-Mo_2) Social Development across Borders

Priority specific objective: RSO4.6. Enhancing the role of culture and sustainable tourism in economic development, social inclusion and social innovation

Priority policy objective (Interreg specific objective): PO4 A more social and inclusive Europe implementing the European Pillar of Social Rights

Type of intervention: 166 Protection, development and promotion of cultural heritage and cultural services

Partners (4)

Lead Partner: COMUNA TULUCESTI

PIC (Participant Identification Code): 881539978

Partner’s ID if not PIC: 3553307

Address: Primariei , 807300 Tulucesti Village, Romania

Legal status: public

Organisation type: Local public authority

Website: http://www.primariatulucesti.ro

Total budget: EUR 102 859.10

Partner’s programme co-financing: EUR 92 573.19

Partner’s programme co-financing rate: 90.00%

Partner contribution: EUR 10 285.91

Contractors:

Name: SC EUROTER DISTRIBUTION SRL
VAT registration or tax identification number: 14406638
Name: SC SELLMARK MEDIA SRL
VAT registration or tax identification number: 37731328
Name: SC CAJOU BISTRO SRL
VAT registration or tax identification number: 50043865
Name: SC PROTHALIA SRL
VAT registration or tax identification number: 8942631
Name: SC SYNAPO ART SRL
VAT registration or tax identification number: RO48973548

Primaria Satului Valeni

Name: Primaria Satului Valeni

PIC (Participant Identification Code): 879169007

Partner’s ID if not PIC: 1007601007066

Address: Valeni, - Valeni, Moldova

Legal status: public

Organisation type: Local public authority

Total budget: EUR 70 662.80

Partner’s programme co-financing: EUR 63 596.52

Partner’s programme co-financing rate: 90.00%

Partner contribution: EUR 7 066.28

Contractors:

Name: Construct Univers SRL
VAT registration or tax identification number: 1011603001285
Name: SC Interstepcom SRL
VAT registration or tax identification number: 1004603006877
Name: BCI Audit SRL
VAT registration or tax identification number: 1003600003270
Name: Reclamdesing Modern SRL
VAT registration or tax identification number: 1008603003634
Name: Mesterul Nicolae SRL
VAT registration or tax identification number: 1021603002445

Agentia de Cooperare Transfrontaliera si Integrare Europeana

Name: Agentia de Cooperare Transfrontaliera si Integrare Europeana

PIC (Participant Identification Code): 936864219

Partner’s ID if not PIC: 1023620004938

Address: 31 August 1989, 3909 Cahul, Moldova

Legal status: private

Organisation type: Interest groups including NGOs

Website: http://www.actie.md

Total budget: EUR 84 021.75

Partner’s programme co-financing: EUR 75 619.57

Partner’s programme co-financing rate: 90.00%

Partner contribution: EUR 8 402.18

Contractors:

Name: Flamingo-Russu I.I.
VAT registration or tax identification number: 1003603006375
Name: Romanian Order of Architects
VAT registration or tax identification number: 14083510
Name: First Audit International SRL
VAT registration or tax identification number: 1003600060677
Name: Vento Retail SRL
VAT registration or tax identification number: 1009600044712

Asociatia Culturala pentru Traditii si Obiceiuri Romanesti "VATRA"

Name: Asociatia Culturala pentru Traditii si Obiceiuri Romanesti "VATRA"

PIC (Participant Identification Code): 880365890

Partner’s ID if not PIC: 38470905

Address: Covurlui, 807301 Sivita Village, Romania

Legal status: private

Organisation type: Interest groups including NGOs

Website: http://www.actorvatra.ro

Total budget: EUR 72 460.40

Partner’s programme co-financing: EUR 65 214.36

Partner’s programme co-financing rate: 90.00%

Partner contribution: EUR 7 246.04

Contractors:

Name: POLIPROD SERV SRL
VAT registration or tax identification number: RO14709844
Name: DELICII BY RAZVAN OANA SRL
VAT registration or tax identification number: RO32767940
Name: INNOVA PIXEL SRL
VAT registration or tax identification number: 41217024

Partners map

Partners and Projects info

Valeni Village Town Hall

Promotion of intangible heritage and national culture in Romania and Republic of Moldova

Partners and Projects info

Cross-border Cooperation and European Integration Agency

Promotion of intangible heritage and national culture in Romania and Republic of Moldova

Partners and Projects info

Cultural Association for Romanian Traditions and Habits "VATRA"

Promotion of intangible heritage and national culture in Romania and Republic of Moldova

Partners and Projects info

TULUCESTI COMMUNE

Promotion of intangible heritage and national culture in Romania and Republic of Moldova

Lead partner

Project partner

Summary

Project name (EN): Promotion of intangible heritage and national culture in Romania and Republic of Moldova

Project acronym: KULtura

Project ID: ROMD00648

Project start date: 2025-03-27

Project end date: 2026-09-26

Project status: ongoing

Relevant linked projects:

"Improving local heritage by equipping Cultural Centre in the village of Sivita,Tulucești commune, Galati County" - National Development Programme Development Programme - NDP , Measure 05/6B - Exploitation
local heritage . (EN) | Both projects focus on cultural heritage, with KULtura emphasizing preservation and promotion at a bilateral level between Romania and the Republic of Moldova, and the Sivita project focusing on local heritage enhancement in Galati County. Together, it can create a broader network of preserved cultural sites, enriching the cultural offer available to both locals and tourists.The KULtura project's focus on sustainable tourism and the promotion of cultural heritage, complements the Sivita project's objective to enhance local heritage through infrastructure development. This synergy could attract a wider audience interested in authentic cultural experiences, contributing to the diversification of tourism offerings in the region.Both projects involve community engagement and aim to stimulate economic growth through tourism and cultural activities. The Sivita project's focus on equipping a Cultural Centre can serve as a hub for activities promoted by the KULtura project, fostering local involvement, and providing economic opportunities through increased tourist footfall.The KULtura project's emphasis on joint activities and knowledge exchange between Romania and the Republic of Moldova can be enriched by the tangible infrastructure and local heritage showcased in the Sivita project. Educational programs and cultural exchanges can be hosted at the newly equipped Cultural Centre, promoting cross-border understanding and cooperation. (EN), Green Tourism and Historical Heritage - an Important Step for the Development of the Black Sea Basin (GreeTHiS) (EN) | Both projects focus on leveraging heritage for tourism development, with "KULtura" emphasizing intangible cultural heritage and "GreeTHiS" concentrating on the ecological aspects of historical and protected buildings. The synergy lies in the holistic promotion of the regions' heritage—combining culture, history, and ecological sustainability to attract tourists interested in diverse experiences."GreeTHiS" aims to support the climate resilience of tourist areas and historical buildings, which complements the "KULtura" project's efforts to promote cultural heritage. Together, these projects can offer a sustainable tourism model that respects and preserves both the cultural and natural environment, making destinations more attractive and responsible. Both projects aim to increase the capacity of local stakeholders—whether in cultural competences or climate adaptation techniques. This shared goal of enhancing local expertise ensures that the regions are not only attractive tourism destinations but also centers of knowledge and best practices in heritage preservation and sustainability."GreeTHiS" focuses on demonstrating sustainable energy interventions in historic areas, which could benefit the "KULtura" project's objectives by showcasing how cultural heritage sites can be preserved using green technologies. This cross-pollination of innovative solutions enhances the appeal and viability of heritage sites as tourism attractions.
the synergy between the "KULtura" and "GreeTHiS" projects represents a comprehensive approach to developing the tourism sector by integrating cultural heritage promotion with ecological sustainability and climate resilience. (EN), "SIDE BY SIDE" Trinodal Network for the Promotion and Development of Tourism in the Cross-Border Area Galati-Cahul-Reni (EN) | The synergy between the "SIDE BY SIDE" project and the "KULtura" project lies in their shared vision for bolstering tourism through the promotion of cultural and recreational assets in their respective cross-border regions. Each project, while distinct in its focus and geographical scope, complements the other in creating a comprehensive and enriched tourism experience that leverages local strengths.Both projects aim to create and strengthen cross-border tourism networks. "SIDE BY SIDE" focuses on linking Galati, Cahul, and Reni through a tri-nodal network, including the development of Info-Centres and recreational bases. "KULtura" aims to promote cultural heritage and create a cross-border tourism network. Together, they can offer tourists a richer, more diverse experience that combines cultural heritage with recreational opportunities, effectively marketing the broader region as a single, attractive destination. The initiatives share a common goal of stimulating local tourism potential and enhancing cooperation between local partners. This shared objective fosters a spirit of collaboration among stakeholders across the border, leveraging each project's successes to mutual benefit.Through the collaborative efforts of both projects, the visibility and accessibility of the cross-border region's tourism assets are significantly enhanced. This joint approach goes beyond existing practices by creating a unified tourism experience that bridges cultural heritage with modern recreational facilities, setting a new standard for cross-border cooperation in the sector.the synergy between the "KULtura" project and the "SIDE BY SIDE" initiative represents a holistic approach to developing the tourism sector by integrating cultural promotion with infrastructure development and recreational offerings. (EN)

Total budget/expenditure: EUR 330 004.05

Total EU funding (amount): EUR 297 003.64

Total EU funding (co-financing rate): 90.00%

Co-financing sources:

Investments, deliverables, policy contributions

(bullets are inserted automatically and may be incorrectly placed)

Deliverables:

1 Launching conference organized - Report of the event
1 Press release
1 Folkloric research in Tulucesti area organized
1 Activity report
1 Folkloric research in Cahul area organized
File for National Register of Intangible Cultural Heritage
2 Press releases
Cultural symposium in Sivita
Cultural symposium in Cahul
Cultural festival in Tulucesti
Cultural festival in Valeni
Craft workshops in Sivita
Craft workshops in Valeni
Cross-border fair in Valeni
Cross-border fair in Tulucesti
1 training sessions in Galati County
1 training sessions in Cahul District
Architectural Guidelines for Adapting to the Local Specifics of the Rural Environment
Exhibition of old photographs
5 workshops for the Preservation and Promotion of Traditional Architecture in Cahul area
5 workshops for the Preservation and Promotion of Traditional Architecture in Galati area
2 Cultural trips in Moldova
2 Cultural trips in Romania
Interactive tourist route map
3 short-documentary series
1 Joint Action Plan developed
1 social media profile for the project
3 short movies and 30 qualitative photos
Promotional kit
1 project logo
3 display durable plaques or billboards
6 press releases/press articles
1 final conference organized - report of the event
1 press release for the event
Equipment and facilities package for Cultural House in Tulucesti
Equipment and facilities package for Craft Workshop in Sivita
Equipment and facilities package - Carpet Weaving Workshop at Valeni History and Ethnography Museum

Contribution to wider strategies and policies:

EUStrategyDanubeRegion The KULtura project contributes to the EU Strategy for the Danube River by promoting cultural heritage preservation and sustainable tourism, which aligns with the strategy's objectives of environmental protection, socio-economic development, and enhancing the region's attractiveness. By fostering cross-border cultural cooperation and valorizing traditions, the project supports regional development, cultural diversity, and sustainable economic growth, directly linking to the strategy's goals of connectivity, environmental quality, and social and economic prosperity. This synergy enhances regional integration and cooperation within the Danube area.
The project pursues two priorities of this strategy:
1. Protection, rehabilitation, and promotion of the Cultural heritage of the Danube Region;
2. Promote sustainable tourism in the Danube Region and capitalize on EUSDR projects in the areas of culture, nature, and tourism;
SeaBasinStrategyBlackSea The KULtura project, by promoting cultural heritage and sustainable tourism, indirectly contributes to the Common Maritime Agenda for the Black Sea's (CMA) overarching goals of fostering a sustainable blue economy, enhancing regional cooperation, and preserving marine and coastal ecosystems. While the primary focus of CMA is on maritime and marine sectors, the project aligns with its broader objectives of environmental sustainability and economic growth through sustainable practices. By encouraging tourism that is aware of and respects the cultural and natural heritage, the project supports the CMA's aim for a competitive, innovative, and sustainable blue economy in the Black Sea region.
Moreover KULtura project will involve collaboration between countries, regions, and communities.
Also, it can attract tourists and visitors interested in experiencing the unique cultural heritage of the Black Sea region. This can lead to increased economic activity in coastal areas, which aligns with the goals of sustainable maritime tourism and the preservation of cultural heritage.
The KULtura project involves local communities, artisans, and artists. This engagement can empower communities and provide economic opportunities, which can have a positive impact on the socio-economic development of coastal regions in the Black Sea area.
In summary, while the KULtura project primarily focuses on cultural heritage, its goals complement the CMA's broader objectives of sustainable development, environmental protection, and regional cooperation in the Black Sea area, demonstrating how cultural initiatives can play a vital role in achieving sustainable blue economy objectives
Other EU strategy for sustainable tourism
The KULtura project, by focusing on cultural heritage preservation and sustainable tourism, can significantly contribute to broader EU strategies and policies on these topics. The European Union recognizes the value of cultural heritage in driving sustainable development and has emphasized the role of sustainable cultural tourism as a key component in regional and macro-regional development strategies. This approach aims to balance tourism development with the protection of cultural heritage, ensuring that local communities are central to decision-making processes, thus aligning with the EU's vision of sustainable cultural tourism.Moreover, the EU strategy for sustainable tourism, particularly in the wake of COVID-19, underlines the importance of rebuilding the sector with a focus on sustainability, resilience, and the digital transition.The EU supports, coordinates, and complements the actions of member states in tourism to maintain Europe as a leading global destination, focusing on maximizing the industry’s contribution to growth and jobs while promoting cooperation between EU countries. The transition pathway for tourism identifies measures for the green and digital transition and for improving the resilience of EU tourism, which includes building on stakeholders’ contributions and aligning with the European agenda for tourism 2030.The KULtura project can contribute to these wider strategies by implementing sustainable practices in cultural tourism that support the green and digital transition, enhancing regional development, and ensuring the conservation of cultural heritage.
Other EU strategy for international cultural relations:
The EU Strategy for International Cultural Relations which focuses on promoting cultural cooperation with partner countries along three main axes: supporting culture as a driver of sustainable social and economic development; promoting culture and intercultural dialogue for peaceful intercommunal relations; strengthening cooperation on cultural heritage. Thus, the project proposes the creation of a cross-border network for cooperation between cultural institutions aiming at promoting cultural heritage.

Deliverable (other than infrastructural investment) areas:

România (RO), Tulucesti Village, Calea Galati, 165, 807300
Moldova (MD)
România (RO), Sivita Village, Covurlui, 15, 807301

Programme Common Output Indicator:

RCO 001 - Enterprises supported (of which: micro, small, medium, large), Measurement unit:
RCO 077 - Number of cultural and tourism sites supported, Measurement unit:
RCO 083 - Strategies and action plans jointly developed, Measurement unit:
RCO 087 - Organisations cooperating across borders, Measurement unit:

Delivered output indicator(s):

(RCO77) Number of cultural and tourism sites supported: 2.0

Programme Common Result Indicator:

RCR 084 - Organisations cooperating across borders after project completion, Measurement unit:
RCR 077 - Visitors of cultural and tourism sites supported, Measurement unit:
RCR 079 - Joint strategies and action plans taken up by organisations, Measurement unit:

Project part of European Union Macro-Regional or Sea Basin Strategy: EUSDR

Information regarding the data in keep.eu on the programme financing this project

Financing programme

2021 - 2027 Interreg VI-A NEXT Romania - Rep.Moldova

Latest month of project-partner-call data publication

2026-01

No. of projects in keep.eu / Total no. of projects (% of projects in keep.eu)

87 / 87 (100%)

No. of project partnerships in keep.eu / Total no. of project partnerships (% of project partnerships in keep.eu)

226 / 226 (100%)

Notes on the data

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Promotion of intangible heritage and national culture in Romania and Republic of Moldova

Description

Thematic information

Partners (4)

Partners map

Summary

Investments, deliverables, policy contributions

Information regarding the data in keep.eu on the programme financing this project

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