Ancient Europos – Doiran Lake – Roman Baths Bansko: Crossing Borders for Sustainable Culture and Tourism

The “CulTour – Crossing Borders” project is a cross-border initiative between Greece and North Macedonia, aiming to enhance the role of culture and sustainable tourism as drivers of regional development, social inclusion, and innovation. The project focuses on the preservation, protection, and promotion of key cultural and natural assets, including the archaeological site of Ancient Europos, the Doiran Lake ecosystem, and the Roman Baths of Bansko.

Its main objective is to unlock the untapped potential of shared cultural heritage by creating a unified cultural route across the border region, increasing accessibility, visibility, and visitor engagement. Through innovative approaches such as digital applications (VR/AR), educational activities, and infrastructure improvements, the project aims to attract new audiences, strengthen local economies, and promote year-round tourism.

The partnership brings together four key organizations:
1. The Ephorate of Antiquities of Kilkis (Lead Partner),
2. The Region of Central Macedonia,
3. The Institute for the Protection of Cultural Monuments and Museum of Strumica, and
4. CISS Skopje.

Each partner contributes specialized expertise, ranging from cultural heritage conservation and infrastructure development to technical support, education, and communication.
Cross-border cooperation lies at the core of the project. Partners jointly design and implement activities, share knowledge, coordinate financial resources, and ensure balanced decision-making. This collaborative approach enables the creation of a cohesive cultural network, strengthens institutional capacity, and fosters long-term cooperation between the two countries.

By promoting cultural exchange, supporting local communities, and generating employment opportunities, the project contributes to sustainable regional growth and social cohesion. Ultimately, CulTour aims to establish a lasting model of cross-border collaboration that enhances cultural identity while delivering tangible economic and social benefits to the wider region

This account is co-funded by the European Union. Its contents are the sole responsibility of Ephorate of Cilcis and do not necessarily reflect the views of the European Union, the participating countries and the Managing Authority