The Action Plan for capitalizing on cultural heritage to increase tourism competitiveness has been approved
The Ministry of Investment and European Projects (MIPE) published on March 31 the joint order of the Minister of Investment and European Projects, the Minister of Entrepreneurship and Tourism, and the Minister of Culture regarding the approval of the Action Plan for capitalizing on cultural heritage to increase the competitiveness of the tourism sector in Romania for the 2022-2026 period.
The approval of the Plan also represents the achievement of milestone 327 related to Component 11 – Tourism and Culture within the National Recovery and Resilience Plan (PNRR).
The general objective of the action plan is to capitalize on national cultural heritage to increase economic competitiveness and promote sustainable socio-economic transformation in rural and disadvantaged areas.
Through 6 main actions and 8 secondary actions, which include the responsible entities, deadlines, budgets, and monitoring methods, the document represents the interdisciplinary approach necessary for public institutions and the private sector in Romania to develop and diversify cultural tourism offerings.
Another goal is to raise international awareness that Romania is a cultural destination with tourist sites and attractions of European and universal value.
Additionally, the 2015 EU report “Heritage Counts for Europe” shows the benefits of reusing heritage and integrating it into urban revitalization strategies as a driver for development through the creation of jobs, services, and local products.
The Action Plan for capitalizing on cultural heritage to increase the competitiveness of the tourism sector in Romania for the 2022-2026 period aims to overcome two major challenges that have intensified in the last 2 years: tourists currently visiting Romania do not spend enough, and not enough high-income tourists are visiting.
The action plan outlines the guidelines for achieving objectives such as:
- mapping geographical areas to identify optimal destinations for the establishment and operationalization of Destination Management Organizations (DMOs);
- establishing sites with national and international impact that can be used to promote tourism in Romania and which will contribute to promoting sustainable socio-economic development in rural and disadvantaged areas;
- investments to be funded under component 11 of the PNRR regarding the restoration of unique sites (fortified churches, monasteries in Moldova, wooden architectural masterpieces, Dacian fortresses, traditional villages, castles, etc.).
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main goal of the Action Plan?
The plan aims to capitalize on national cultural heritage to increase economic competitiveness and promote sustainable socio-economic transformation in rural and disadvantaged areas.
How does this plan relate to the PNRR?
The approval of this plan fulfills Milestone 327 of Component 11 (Tourism and Culture) within Romania’s National Recovery and Resilience Plan (PNRR).
Which specific heritage sites are targeted for investment?
Investments will focus on restoring unique sites such as fortified churches, monasteries in Moldova, wooden architectural masterpieces, Dacian fortresses, traditional villages, and castles.