Contact: Ms. Caroline Fernolend
FCN members since: 2016
Profile: Integrated sustainable development
Membership status: Active
http://www.mihaieminescutrust.ro
Context
After the political changes in Romania in 1990, when the majority of Viscri’s Saxon population immigrated to Germany, the initiative was born to try and turn the existent Saxon built heritage into an economic asset and to improve the inhabitants' quality of life and living conditions. Between 1992 and 2016, Viscri has progressively become a place of interest, both at national and international level. The characteristics of the new, multi-ethnic community from Viscri, along with Mihai Eminescu Trust’s progress and projects, as well as the established agricultural practices have all contributed to the development of tourism and traditional local crafts into an economic environment.
Description of Activity
Several training activities for the revitalization of different crafts have been organised since 2000, many facades, houses and barns have been restored, in the traditional way, and numerous other community projects, carried out for the general well-being of the village (sewage system, ecological water treatment system). The constant motivation of all vulnerable groups (Roma, women) to participate and contribute to the implementation of the cultural heritage valorisation projects in Viscri has generated in time the foundation for their sustainable integration in the community.
- The valorisation of the village/community authenticity
- The revitalization of the traditional crafts (plasterer, carpenter, roof maker, tile maker, blacksmith)
- The restoration of the village houses and local monuments with local materials (clay, sand, stone, lime, wood)
- Turning traditional houses into bed-and-breakfasts
- Developing horse and cart itineraries for tourists
- Encouraging the use of home grown, organic vegetables, and promoting the local gastronomy
