It binds communities to their roots, fosters pride, and strengthens social cohesion. When citizens are actively involved in preserving their cultural heritage, they contribute to keeping local traditions alive, safeguarding historical landmarks, and promoting cultural diversity. This citizen-led approach ensures that heritage remains relevant and accessible for future generations, balancing modern development with the preservation of unique cultural narratives.
In the context of the Smart Heritage Working Group, EURADA recently held a two-part meeting series, “From Recognition to Action: Engaging Citizens in the Future of Smart Heritage,” on October 15th and 29th. These events were a unique platform where experts, policymakers, and stakeholders gathered to share success stories and explore innovative strategies to engage citizens in cultural heritage preservation. The discussions underscored the potential of citizen involvement in making cultural preservation more sustainable, inclusive, and effective.
The first part of the series brought together two remarkable speakers whose work exemplifies the power of community-driven heritage initiatives. Ms. Elena Bianchi, Programme Manager for the European Heritage Awards / Europa Nostra Awards, presented “The Power of Example: Inspiring Citizen Engagement through the Winners of the European Heritage Awards.” Elena highlighted seven award-winning projects that serve as exemplary models for citizen engagement in heritage preservation. Her presentation showcased how these projects bring cultural heritage to life, demonstrating that active participation can create lasting impacts. Elena also promoted the 2025 Call for Entries, encouraging heritage organizations to participate and enhance collaborative efforts across Europe. With over 16 years of experience in managing heritage awards, Elena’s expertise provided invaluable insights into fostering community engagement on a European scale.
Following Elena’s presentation, Dr. Amilcar Vargas from Casa Batlló shared “Illuminating Heritage: Casa Batlló's Journey of Engagement, Creativity, and Inclusion.” Amilcar explored Casa Batlló’s unique approach to cultural heritage, one that emphasizes creativity, public engagement, and social impact. He introduced the audience to the captivating projects at Casa Batlló, such as immersive video mappings, façade decorations, and a neurodivergent labour inclusion program that underscores the inclusivity of their initiatives. Amilcar’s experience in implementing the UNESCO World Heritage Convention at Casa Batlló, as well as his involvement with UNESCO and other World Heritage sites, showcased how modern heritage management can embrace both historical preservation and community engagement.
The second part of the series, held on October 29, continued the conversation with additional inspiring speakers who shared best practices, award opportunities, and sustainable methods for engaging citizens. Ms. Salome Jamburia, PhD, Chair of European Heritage Days to the Council of Europe, led with a presentation titled “Encouraging Community Involvement in the Exploration and Enhancement of Heritage.” Salome detailed the activities within the European Heritage Days, including the European Heritage Days Stories and the Young European Heritage Makers. By emphasizing the event’s objectives and award selection process, she illustrated how European Heritage Days encourage citizens of all ages to connect with their local and European heritage. Her background, with over a decade in cultural heritage and international collaborations, including with UNESCO and the Council of Europe, underscored the value of multilevel engagement in preserving heritage sustainably.
Following Salome, Ms. Natalia Szelachowska, President and co-founder of the Research and Animation Association Flaneur, presented “The Lost Art of Mosaics: Reviving the Cultural Heritage of Warsaw Through Art and Community Engagement.” Natalia shared her team’s journey in uncovering and promoting Warsaw’s forgotten 20th-century art heritage, specifically the mosaics of local artist Zbigniew Brodowski. Her association’s work goes beyond preservation, aiming to transform perceptions of the Praga-Poludnie district from a “cultural desert” to a vibrant art hub. Through public walks, exhibitions, and digital platforms, Natalia demonstrated how heritage can foster local pride, strengthen identity, and engage communities creatively.
These meeting series have highlighted the essential role of citizens in heritage preservation and provided a comprehensive view of innovative strategies and successful initiatives. From Europe-wide award programs to locally-focused community projects, these examples show that heritage preservation benefits tremendously from citizen involvement. By fostering a collective sense of responsibility, cities and communities can create vibrant, inclusive spaces that honour the past and embrace the future.
For more information on upcoming opportunities to get involved in cultural heritage preservation, be sure to follow EURADA’s updates on further initiatives within the Smart Heritage Working Group.
