Local heritage at Valea Fagilor
Basic information
Project Title
Local heritage at Valea Fagilor
Full project title
Promotion of tangible and intangible heritage within the Valea Fagilor Agropension
Category
Regaining a sense of belonging
Project Description
The promotion of tangible and intangible heritage within the Valea Fagilor Agropension is an exceptional project that falls within a series of essential criteria, focusing on inclusion, sustainability, aesthetics and quality, with an emphasis on restoring the sense of belonging.
My project connects heritage and local historical traditions, cultural dynamics through zonal ethnic multiculturalism, offers a contemporary lifestyle and inspires young people, locals, people with disabilities.
My project connects heritage and local historical traditions, cultural dynamics through zonal ethnic multiculturalism, offers a contemporary lifestyle and inspires young people, locals, people with disabilities.
Geographical Scope
Regional
Project Region
Dobrogea region with Tulcea and Constanta counties., Romania
Urban or rural issues
Mainly rural
Physical or other transformations
It refers to a physical transformation of the built environment (hard investment)
EU Programme or fund
Yes
Which funds
EAFRD : European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development
Description of the project
Summary
Built starting in 2017, based on a European grant through the National Rural Development Program, Agrotourism guesthouse Valea Fagilor, develops tourist services based on the regional attractions given by the richness of the flora and fauna of Mountains Macin National Park, the ecumenical tourist attractions with monasteries (Celic-Dere, Cocoșu, Saonu), old churches (Basilica paleochristina Niculitel) and troitses, the area of astronomical observations (Pietrosu hill - where there are permanent air currents that keep the clouds from being and thus astronomical observations can be made) but especially the local heritage held with old architectural elements originating from the ethnic multiculturalism characterizing us and the authentic local gastronomy.
The general objective of the project was the development of tourism activities in rural areas that would contribute to increasing the number of jobs and alternative incomes, as well as increasing the attractiveness of the rural area.
Thus, the group we are addressing, being a vacation destination and not a traffic destination, are:
- people passionate about nature, hiking;
- families with children and grandparents;
- persons with disabilities,
- people coming in ecumenical tourism;
- athletes such as cycling, astrotourism, birdwatching;
The beneficiary also took into account the reception of people with locomotor disabilities. Thus, the Valea Fagilor benefits from bathrooms in the bedroom area with easy access, rooms with large doors, an access ramp at the entrance, parking spaces, all of which are dedicated to people with locomotor disabilities. Also, in support of people with locomotor disabilities, the agro-pension offers the possibility for these people to participate in household activities (mown and maintain green space, fruit trees from their own orchard).
In order to promote traditional culture, in the guesthouse, traditional objects, made by popular craftsmen from the area, are exhibited.
The general objective of the project was the development of tourism activities in rural areas that would contribute to increasing the number of jobs and alternative incomes, as well as increasing the attractiveness of the rural area.
Thus, the group we are addressing, being a vacation destination and not a traffic destination, are:
- people passionate about nature, hiking;
- families with children and grandparents;
- persons with disabilities,
- people coming in ecumenical tourism;
- athletes such as cycling, astrotourism, birdwatching;
The beneficiary also took into account the reception of people with locomotor disabilities. Thus, the Valea Fagilor benefits from bathrooms in the bedroom area with easy access, rooms with large doors, an access ramp at the entrance, parking spaces, all of which are dedicated to people with locomotor disabilities. Also, in support of people with locomotor disabilities, the agro-pension offers the possibility for these people to participate in household activities (mown and maintain green space, fruit trees from their own orchard).
In order to promote traditional culture, in the guesthouse, traditional objects, made by popular craftsmen from the area, are exhibited.
Key objectives for sustainability
Located at the foot of the old Hercinici mountain range, today the Măcin Mountains and surrounded by the only European place where 14 ethnic groups coexist in harmony, the locality of the project implementation is Luncavița in Tulcea County, Romania.
With a location in the Dobrogea region, on the Danube meadow and the Sarica vineyard, the locality combines the name of meadow (lunca) with vines (viță) - Luncavița and borders the Danube river which is the border with Ukraine.
This geographical context is not without its challenges, as the locality is located on the border with Ukraine (Ismail, Orlovka, Reni area) which is affected by the unjust war which has significant consequences for its citizens. Not infrequently, we are awakened at night by the heavy sounds of shelling from their ports and the alarms received on our mobile devices. However, the agroturism guesthouse aims to create an oasis of peace and restore links between the local community and its heritage.
Another significant aspect in the project is my involvement as a disabled person. Agrotourism guesthouse Valea Fagilor is a project led by a person with disabilities, who moves in a wheelchair, with university training in theology and management and now a master's student in European integration.
It demonstrates that physical mobility can be successfully supplemented by vision and positive thinking, actively contributing to the initiative. I lack physical mobility but make up for it with the speed of optimistic thoughts put into practice in everything that surrounds me.
In creating the agri-pension, we considered the diversification of the agricultural services provided by the own household with an orchard with fruit trees, the use of architectural elements provided by the material heritage owned and services suitable for a wider spectrum of tourists, among which that of disabled people should not be excluded, but to attract. There was no threshold or step in the courtyard of the guesthouse.
With a location in the Dobrogea region, on the Danube meadow and the Sarica vineyard, the locality combines the name of meadow (lunca) with vines (viță) - Luncavița and borders the Danube river which is the border with Ukraine.
This geographical context is not without its challenges, as the locality is located on the border with Ukraine (Ismail, Orlovka, Reni area) which is affected by the unjust war which has significant consequences for its citizens. Not infrequently, we are awakened at night by the heavy sounds of shelling from their ports and the alarms received on our mobile devices. However, the agroturism guesthouse aims to create an oasis of peace and restore links between the local community and its heritage.
Another significant aspect in the project is my involvement as a disabled person. Agrotourism guesthouse Valea Fagilor is a project led by a person with disabilities, who moves in a wheelchair, with university training in theology and management and now a master's student in European integration.
It demonstrates that physical mobility can be successfully supplemented by vision and positive thinking, actively contributing to the initiative. I lack physical mobility but make up for it with the speed of optimistic thoughts put into practice in everything that surrounds me.
In creating the agri-pension, we considered the diversification of the agricultural services provided by the own household with an orchard with fruit trees, the use of architectural elements provided by the material heritage owned and services suitable for a wider spectrum of tourists, among which that of disabled people should not be excluded, but to attract. There was no threshold or step in the courtyard of the guesthouse.
Key objectives for aesthetics and quality
The project was written and submitted to obtain financing by me and it is a project for more than a guesthouse, this project today promotes the local intangible heritage, being also authorized as a Local Gastronomic Point (PGL), a specific accreditation for locations with authentic food of the area.
The whole story is an inspiring example of a sustainable, aesthetic and inclusive project that values cultural diversity and local heritage. Visitors have the opportunity to connect with the history and traditions of the area, discover local crafts and enjoy the beauty of the landscape.
The aesthetics of the entire boarding house is exceptional, being appreciated by many tourists and included in nationally televised material. The construction was based on the rules imposed by the local authorities and the national park and, like the other neighboring buildings, it is green, with a green roof, a hedge and a yard with fruit trees or a green space with a playground. From the local material heritage we used architectural elements on the exterior with a lot of hand-made woodwork for the fence of the house and perforated guard at the eaves of the house from the roof as well as stone decorations.
Inside, the building has 4 bedrooms with their own bathrooms, living space, kitchen and storage rooms.
The interior is architecturally defined by the ethnic groups of the area with many colors specific to them: Ukrainian and Italian blue, white of the Greek community, red and black of the ethnic Turks, Tatars or Roma, all included among the traditional elements of the Romanian heritage, stylized.
The traditional motifs "windmills" and "hora"(hand in hand dance) , motifs specific to Dobrogea, are painted to outline the ethnic groups that for so many years coexist in complete tranquility and peace in this area.
The terrace is designed with an opening to the guesthouse and carefully framed architecturally with many elements of the local heritage.
The whole story is an inspiring example of a sustainable, aesthetic and inclusive project that values cultural diversity and local heritage. Visitors have the opportunity to connect with the history and traditions of the area, discover local crafts and enjoy the beauty of the landscape.
The aesthetics of the entire boarding house is exceptional, being appreciated by many tourists and included in nationally televised material. The construction was based on the rules imposed by the local authorities and the national park and, like the other neighboring buildings, it is green, with a green roof, a hedge and a yard with fruit trees or a green space with a playground. From the local material heritage we used architectural elements on the exterior with a lot of hand-made woodwork for the fence of the house and perforated guard at the eaves of the house from the roof as well as stone decorations.
Inside, the building has 4 bedrooms with their own bathrooms, living space, kitchen and storage rooms.
The interior is architecturally defined by the ethnic groups of the area with many colors specific to them: Ukrainian and Italian blue, white of the Greek community, red and black of the ethnic Turks, Tatars or Roma, all included among the traditional elements of the Romanian heritage, stylized.
The traditional motifs "windmills" and "hora"(hand in hand dance) , motifs specific to Dobrogea, are painted to outline the ethnic groups that for so many years coexist in complete tranquility and peace in this area.
The terrace is designed with an opening to the guesthouse and carefully framed architecturally with many elements of the local heritage.
Key objectives for inclusion
Being part of a social category as a vulnerable group and facing various problems related mainly to access, I wrote the project based on the facilitation of people with disabilities to tourist services. For easy access, the land was raised in the orchard area, brought to straight levels so that there are no differences in level and creates access everywhere.
The Valea Fagilor Agri-Pension manages to value ethnic multiculturalism, tradition and culture, harmoniously integrated in an exceptional natural setting, while respecting environmental protection measures and ensuring easy access for disadvantaged groups, especially people with disabilities. This effort contributes to stimulating economic development, both for my family and for the community of which I am a part.
The entire construction is green with natural decorative elements that make a perfect integration in nature, where the protected species of fauna such as the Danube falcon do not consider the building a danger but seem like a setting in its natural setting, where the tourist can admire it from the guesthouse yard when he hovers over it.
The building we built is an inspiring example of a beautiful, sustainable and inclusive project, helping to form a deep connection with places, communities or products.
In support of people with locomotor disabilities, the agro-pension offers the possibility for these people to participate in household activities (mown and maintain green space, fruit trees from their own orchard).
In order to promote traditional culture, in the guesthouse, traditional objects, made by popular craftsmen from the area, are exhibited.
My project connects heritage and local historical traditions, cultural dynamics through zonal ethnic multiculturalism, offers a contemporary lifestyle and inspires young people, locals, people with disabilities through an example of good motivational practice.
The Valea Fagilor Agri-Pension manages to value ethnic multiculturalism, tradition and culture, harmoniously integrated in an exceptional natural setting, while respecting environmental protection measures and ensuring easy access for disadvantaged groups, especially people with disabilities. This effort contributes to stimulating economic development, both for my family and for the community of which I am a part.
The entire construction is green with natural decorative elements that make a perfect integration in nature, where the protected species of fauna such as the Danube falcon do not consider the building a danger but seem like a setting in its natural setting, where the tourist can admire it from the guesthouse yard when he hovers over it.
The building we built is an inspiring example of a beautiful, sustainable and inclusive project, helping to form a deep connection with places, communities or products.
In support of people with locomotor disabilities, the agro-pension offers the possibility for these people to participate in household activities (mown and maintain green space, fruit trees from their own orchard).
In order to promote traditional culture, in the guesthouse, traditional objects, made by popular craftsmen from the area, are exhibited.
My project connects heritage and local historical traditions, cultural dynamics through zonal ethnic multiculturalism, offers a contemporary lifestyle and inspires young people, locals, people with disabilities through an example of good motivational practice.
Results in relation to category
In the landscape of contemporary tourism, where speed and advanced technology dominate, the pension Valea Fagilor stands out as a brave pilot project, full of innovation and dedication to authentic values. This business, managed by our family, not only redefines the concept of hospitality, but also masterfully combines archaic traditions with multidimensional approaches, offering a unique and special experience.
Pricing policy: flexibility
Our pricing principle reflects not only a commercial strategy, but also a philosophy that emphasizes diversity and affordability. Our range of offers covers varied holiday lengths, specific times of the year and customized packages, including from parties to team-building, guided sightseeing tours, farm, artisan and fishing experiences, to authentic wine tastings.
Social inclusion and climate sustainability:
A defining feature of this initiative is our deep commitment to social inclusion and climate sustainability. We are not just about being a successful business; we are an open community, ready to embrace diversity and help protect the environment. Our services are shaped around sustainable techniques and measures, ensuring that every aspect of our business is integrated into a global context of environmental responsibility.
Promotion of heritage:
The Valea Fagilor Agri-Pension is not just a place to stay; it is a living story of tangible and intangible heritage. We focus on inclusion, sustainability, aesthetics and quality, with a special focus on restoring a sense of belonging. In the midst of this unique landscape, local traditions, customs and crafts are preserved and celebrated, giving visitors an authentic connection to the cultural roots of the place.
In conclusion, the Agropensiunea Valea Fagilor becomes an example of excellence in European ecotourism, with a holistic approach that combines flexible prices, environmental protection, sustainable business and the promotion of cultural heritage.
Pricing policy: flexibility
Our pricing principle reflects not only a commercial strategy, but also a philosophy that emphasizes diversity and affordability. Our range of offers covers varied holiday lengths, specific times of the year and customized packages, including from parties to team-building, guided sightseeing tours, farm, artisan and fishing experiences, to authentic wine tastings.
Social inclusion and climate sustainability:
A defining feature of this initiative is our deep commitment to social inclusion and climate sustainability. We are not just about being a successful business; we are an open community, ready to embrace diversity and help protect the environment. Our services are shaped around sustainable techniques and measures, ensuring that every aspect of our business is integrated into a global context of environmental responsibility.
Promotion of heritage:
The Valea Fagilor Agri-Pension is not just a place to stay; it is a living story of tangible and intangible heritage. We focus on inclusion, sustainability, aesthetics and quality, with a special focus on restoring a sense of belonging. In the midst of this unique landscape, local traditions, customs and crafts are preserved and celebrated, giving visitors an authentic connection to the cultural roots of the place.
In conclusion, the Agropensiunea Valea Fagilor becomes an example of excellence in European ecotourism, with a holistic approach that combines flexible prices, environmental protection, sustainable business and the promotion of cultural heritage.
How Citizens benefit
The name of the agro-pension comes from the Valea Fagilor Reserve, a reserve managed by the Macin National Park (PNMM).
Located at the foot of the old Hercinici mountain range, today the Măcin Mountains and surrounded by the only European place where 14 ethnic groups coexist in harmony, the locality of the project implementation is Luncavița in Tulcea County.
The entire guesthouse, for example, can play a key role in restoring a sense of belonging and shaping ambitions for the future of local and regional communities. By reconfiguring spaces to promote positive interactions between generations and developing strong communities, it can play a significant role in preserving and promoting the rich cultural heritage that comes from multiple generations.
The one who visits us has direct contact with ancient history and traditional occupations given by what the environment has to offer:
- The Danube with a pond area for local gastronomy and handicrafts made from rushes;
- mountain with vine meadow with lots of green, local wines presented to tourists in the painting on the wall;
The project establishes the sentimental depth of belonging to the area and creates, based on local and regional development strategies, the sustainable future based on resources still owned.
The impact of citizen and civil society involvement in the project was significant. We achieved not only community support for the project, but also a stronger connection between residents and their heritage. This has helped increase the perceived value of the guesthouse and create an authentic guest experience.
Regarding the role of citizens and their level of involvement, they were full partners in the decision-making process. Civil society representatives played an important consultative role, providing advice and technical assistance. Thus, our project was not only successfully implemented, but became a community in itself, based on collaboration and mutual respect between all those involved.
Located at the foot of the old Hercinici mountain range, today the Măcin Mountains and surrounded by the only European place where 14 ethnic groups coexist in harmony, the locality of the project implementation is Luncavița in Tulcea County.
The entire guesthouse, for example, can play a key role in restoring a sense of belonging and shaping ambitions for the future of local and regional communities. By reconfiguring spaces to promote positive interactions between generations and developing strong communities, it can play a significant role in preserving and promoting the rich cultural heritage that comes from multiple generations.
The one who visits us has direct contact with ancient history and traditional occupations given by what the environment has to offer:
- The Danube with a pond area for local gastronomy and handicrafts made from rushes;
- mountain with vine meadow with lots of green, local wines presented to tourists in the painting on the wall;
The project establishes the sentimental depth of belonging to the area and creates, based on local and regional development strategies, the sustainable future based on resources still owned.
The impact of citizen and civil society involvement in the project was significant. We achieved not only community support for the project, but also a stronger connection between residents and their heritage. This has helped increase the perceived value of the guesthouse and create an authentic guest experience.
Regarding the role of citizens and their level of involvement, they were full partners in the decision-making process. Civil society representatives played an important consultative role, providing advice and technical assistance. Thus, our project was not only successfully implemented, but became a community in itself, based on collaboration and mutual respect between all those involved.
Physical or other transformations
It refers to a physical transformation of the built environment (hard investment)
Innovative character
Compared to mainstream actions in our field, our project is distinguished by several innovative aspects.
We have integrated adapted facilities and designs, thus transforming the countryside into an inclusive space, open to all travelers.
Cultural diversity the architectural elements of our guesthouse are anchored in local traditions and ethnicities. In contrast to mainstream approaches, which often adopt generic designs, our project brings together varied architectural influences, providing a distinct and engaging visual experience.
At the heart of our project is the integration of local agricultural activities such as beekeeping, animal husbandry and fishing. This synergy between tourism and traditional agricultural practices adds a hands-on and interactive dimension, giving our guests the chance to engage in authentic experiences away from the daily routine. In contrast to usual projects that only focus on the tangible aspects of heritage, our project brings together tangible and intangible heritage.
Sustainable social and economic impact. Our project is not limited to providing a tourist experience, but has a sustainable and beneficial impact on the local community. We have created partnerships with residents to promote local products, crafts and traditions, thus contributing to local economic development and the preservation of cultural identity. Currently, the guesthouse promotes products from authorized local producers and uses raw materials from them in the process of preparing meals. In this way, we create a closed, sustainable local circuit from which we all have to gain, with a local and regional footprint. In the interior, there is no shortage of handmade clay vessels, carved wooden elements or products made of rushes, all of which come from the old occupations of the local people.
The most beautiful linden forest in the country, which borders us in the PNMM, we included it stylized in decorative furniture with shapes of beehives, beekeeping.
We have integrated adapted facilities and designs, thus transforming the countryside into an inclusive space, open to all travelers.
Cultural diversity the architectural elements of our guesthouse are anchored in local traditions and ethnicities. In contrast to mainstream approaches, which often adopt generic designs, our project brings together varied architectural influences, providing a distinct and engaging visual experience.
At the heart of our project is the integration of local agricultural activities such as beekeeping, animal husbandry and fishing. This synergy between tourism and traditional agricultural practices adds a hands-on and interactive dimension, giving our guests the chance to engage in authentic experiences away from the daily routine. In contrast to usual projects that only focus on the tangible aspects of heritage, our project brings together tangible and intangible heritage.
Sustainable social and economic impact. Our project is not limited to providing a tourist experience, but has a sustainable and beneficial impact on the local community. We have created partnerships with residents to promote local products, crafts and traditions, thus contributing to local economic development and the preservation of cultural identity. Currently, the guesthouse promotes products from authorized local producers and uses raw materials from them in the process of preparing meals. In this way, we create a closed, sustainable local circuit from which we all have to gain, with a local and regional footprint. In the interior, there is no shortage of handmade clay vessels, carved wooden elements or products made of rushes, all of which come from the old occupations of the local people.
The most beautiful linden forest in the country, which borders us in the PNMM, we included it stylized in decorative furniture with shapes of beehives, beekeeping.
Disciplines/knowledge reflected
Our project to promote local tourism, with a guesthouse that emphasizes tangible and intangible heritage, also benefiting from facilities for people with disabilities in the countryside, involved a complex collaboration between various professionals and entities.
1. Architecture and Design:
Our architects were central to the project, ensuring that the hostel space was not only functional but also aesthetically pleasing. They have considered the needs of people with disabilities, ensuring that every aspect of the design is accessible and comfortable. The integration of local heritage into the architecture brought uniqueness and authenticity to the project.
2. Notices from the National Park Administration and Environmental Protection:
Collaboration with these entities was crucial to ensure that our project complies with environmental regulations and blends harmoniously into the natural landscape of the area. The approvals brought not only legality, but also sustainability at a high level, highlighting our commitment to protecting the environment.
3. Order of Architects with Cultural Enrollment:
Interaction with the Order of Architects ensured that our project not only complies with cultural standards, but also contributes to the promotion and preservation of local heritage. Their involvement brought a cultural and historical perspective to the project, thus enriching the experience offered by the guesthouse.
4. Accessibility and Universal Design Professionals:
To ensure that the hostel is truly disabled friendly, we have worked with experts in accessibility and universal design. These professionals brought their expertise to the project to ensure that every aspect of the guesthouse is easily accessible and provides comfort to all guests.
This exemplary initiative not only redefines the tourism experience, but also contributes to shaping a more inclusive community and protecting the natural beauty of the surrounding environment.
1. Architecture and Design:
Our architects were central to the project, ensuring that the hostel space was not only functional but also aesthetically pleasing. They have considered the needs of people with disabilities, ensuring that every aspect of the design is accessible and comfortable. The integration of local heritage into the architecture brought uniqueness and authenticity to the project.
2. Notices from the National Park Administration and Environmental Protection:
Collaboration with these entities was crucial to ensure that our project complies with environmental regulations and blends harmoniously into the natural landscape of the area. The approvals brought not only legality, but also sustainability at a high level, highlighting our commitment to protecting the environment.
3. Order of Architects with Cultural Enrollment:
Interaction with the Order of Architects ensured that our project not only complies with cultural standards, but also contributes to the promotion and preservation of local heritage. Their involvement brought a cultural and historical perspective to the project, thus enriching the experience offered by the guesthouse.
4. Accessibility and Universal Design Professionals:
To ensure that the hostel is truly disabled friendly, we have worked with experts in accessibility and universal design. These professionals brought their expertise to the project to ensure that every aspect of the guesthouse is easily accessible and provides comfort to all guests.
This exemplary initiative not only redefines the tourism experience, but also contributes to shaping a more inclusive community and protecting the natural beauty of the surrounding environment.
Methodology used
The methodology held such social inclusion, innovation, environmental protection combined with the use of old architectural elements all to bring a contribution to the development of the economic activity. Through this integrated methodology, we managed to build not just a guest house, but an authentic, inclusive and sustainable tourist destination that faithfully reflects the richness and cultural diversity.
The interior of the guesthouse will be decorated in the style of traditional Dobrogea area culture.
After the completion of the project, we built a traditional pavilion to promote the intangible heritage owned, namely to authorize us as a Local Gastronomic Point.
Inside, to capture the old hunting activity, we created a smokehouse where you can now smoke lamb, poultry or fish products.
As an indispensable element in our grandparents' households, we created an oven with a baking hearth where bread or other specific bakery products with local characteristics can be made.
In order to fry a fish on the stove and boil a traditional fish borscht, because the area has many wetlands with lakes and the Danube river, we combined a wood-burning stove between the oven and the smokehouse, and the grill for vegetables and meats is in the middle.
As decorative elements I used objects from the old traditional kitchen which, with great effort, I collected from wherever they could be found, and now I have: covata (where the housewives put the flour to leaven and knead it to rise), old scales to measure the weight of the food used, the hearth shovel for removing the bread from the oven, and other furniture items for storing cups, dishes, jugs, tableware.
As elements that symbolically show the hard work of the working peasant, we decoratively placed, next to the housewife's kitchen, the yoke of the oxen that pulled the cart to work in the fields. That yoke still shows the labor of the peasant through the fineness of the material polished in the daily work in the field.
The interior of the guesthouse will be decorated in the style of traditional Dobrogea area culture.
After the completion of the project, we built a traditional pavilion to promote the intangible heritage owned, namely to authorize us as a Local Gastronomic Point.
Inside, to capture the old hunting activity, we created a smokehouse where you can now smoke lamb, poultry or fish products.
As an indispensable element in our grandparents' households, we created an oven with a baking hearth where bread or other specific bakery products with local characteristics can be made.
In order to fry a fish on the stove and boil a traditional fish borscht, because the area has many wetlands with lakes and the Danube river, we combined a wood-burning stove between the oven and the smokehouse, and the grill for vegetables and meats is in the middle.
As decorative elements I used objects from the old traditional kitchen which, with great effort, I collected from wherever they could be found, and now I have: covata (where the housewives put the flour to leaven and knead it to rise), old scales to measure the weight of the food used, the hearth shovel for removing the bread from the oven, and other furniture items for storing cups, dishes, jugs, tableware.
As elements that symbolically show the hard work of the working peasant, we decoratively placed, next to the housewife's kitchen, the yoke of the oxen that pulled the cart to work in the fields. That yoke still shows the labor of the peasant through the fineness of the material polished in the daily work in the field.
How stakeholders are engaged
In our endeavor to create a local tourism business focused on the promotion of tangible and intangible heritage, we involved a variety of stakeholders at different levels - local, regional, national and European, to ensure a comprehensive and sustainable implementation of the project.
At local level we interacted closely with local authorities, including town halls and community organisations. These entities have been instrumental in providing us with a deep understanding of local cultural values and heritage, as well as facilitating access to local resources. Residents were invited to share their stories and traditions, thus reinforcing the authenticity of the tourist experience.
At the regional level, collaboration with regional travel agencies and tourism development associations has brought a broader perspective to our potential. We have had access to extensive networks and additional resources, as well as platforms to more effectively promote our project to a wider audience. Involvement at national level involved collaboration with relevant ministries and national tourism agencies. We benefited from institutional support in writing and implementation, which strengthened the credibility of our project and opened doors for funding and national tourism promotion programs for others. We have also participated in conferences and national events to share our experience and to inspire other entrepreneurs in the field, and especially with the aim of showing that the barriers given by a disability in a state that came from communism, can be overcome through the opportunities given by the European community. At the European level, we are posted on reputable accommodation search engines and the partnership contracts have contributed to internationalization and the adoption of best practices. The added value of stakeholder engagement was a unified approach, integrating the contributions of each party to create a unique and sustainable tourism experience.
At local level we interacted closely with local authorities, including town halls and community organisations. These entities have been instrumental in providing us with a deep understanding of local cultural values and heritage, as well as facilitating access to local resources. Residents were invited to share their stories and traditions, thus reinforcing the authenticity of the tourist experience.
At the regional level, collaboration with regional travel agencies and tourism development associations has brought a broader perspective to our potential. We have had access to extensive networks and additional resources, as well as platforms to more effectively promote our project to a wider audience. Involvement at national level involved collaboration with relevant ministries and national tourism agencies. We benefited from institutional support in writing and implementation, which strengthened the credibility of our project and opened doors for funding and national tourism promotion programs for others. We have also participated in conferences and national events to share our experience and to inspire other entrepreneurs in the field, and especially with the aim of showing that the barriers given by a disability in a state that came from communism, can be overcome through the opportunities given by the European community. At the European level, we are posted on reputable accommodation search engines and the partnership contracts have contributed to internationalization and the adoption of best practices. The added value of stakeholder engagement was a unified approach, integrating the contributions of each party to create a unique and sustainable tourism experience.
Global challenges
As an indispensable element in our grandparents' households, we created an oven with a baking hearth where bread or other specific bakery products with local characteristics can be made. It celebrates diversity by incorporating the rich local heritage resulting from ethnic multiculturalism.
In order to fry a fish on the stove and boil a traditional fish borscht, because the area has many wetlands with lakes and the Danube river, we combined a wood-burning stove between the oven and the smokehouse, and the grill for vegetables and meats is in the middle.
As decorative elements I used objects from the old traditional kitchen which, with great effort, I collected from wherever they could be found, and now I have: covata (where the housewives put the flour to leaven and knead it to rise), old scales to measure the weight of the food used, the hearth shovel for removing the bread from the oven, and other furniture items for storing cups, dishes, jugs, tableware.
As elements that symbolically show the hard work of the working peasant, we decoratively placed, next to the housewife's kitchen, the yoke of the oxen that pulled the cart to work in the fields. That yoke still shows the labor of the peasant through the fineness of the material polished in the daily work in the field.
In order to be friends with nature and connect to the European Green Pact, we use sustainability techniques in the plan to ensure the sustainability of the small agro-pension and we have invested a lot, realizing the importance of environmental protection measures, and now we have green energy sources with:
- solar panels for hot water production;
- photovoltaic panels for contribution to electricity supply;
- heat pump to ensure the thermal energy used in the heating system from the inside where we used an installation through the floor to reduce consumption;
- mini purification station and grease separator so that everything that comes out of the boarding house does not pollute;
In order to fry a fish on the stove and boil a traditional fish borscht, because the area has many wetlands with lakes and the Danube river, we combined a wood-burning stove between the oven and the smokehouse, and the grill for vegetables and meats is in the middle.
As decorative elements I used objects from the old traditional kitchen which, with great effort, I collected from wherever they could be found, and now I have: covata (where the housewives put the flour to leaven and knead it to rise), old scales to measure the weight of the food used, the hearth shovel for removing the bread from the oven, and other furniture items for storing cups, dishes, jugs, tableware.
As elements that symbolically show the hard work of the working peasant, we decoratively placed, next to the housewife's kitchen, the yoke of the oxen that pulled the cart to work in the fields. That yoke still shows the labor of the peasant through the fineness of the material polished in the daily work in the field.
In order to be friends with nature and connect to the European Green Pact, we use sustainability techniques in the plan to ensure the sustainability of the small agro-pension and we have invested a lot, realizing the importance of environmental protection measures, and now we have green energy sources with:
- solar panels for hot water production;
- photovoltaic panels for contribution to electricity supply;
- heat pump to ensure the thermal energy used in the heating system from the inside where we used an installation through the floor to reduce consumption;
- mini purification station and grease separator so that everything that comes out of the boarding house does not pollute;
Learning transferred to other parties
I could confidently say that the business my family runs is an example of a pilot project, as we manage to successfully merge the archaic and multi-dimensional elements that define our roots in an age characterized by speed and advanced technology. This initiative offers social inclusion services based on sustainability and climate sustainability techniques and measures.
My project connects heritage and local historical traditions, cultural dynamics through zonal ethnic multiculturalism, offers a contemporary lifestyle and inspires young people, locals, people with disabilities through an example of good motivational practice. The project establishes the sentimental depth of belonging to the area and creates, based on local and regional development strategies, the sustainable future based on resources still owned.
Local engagement brought authenticity and cultural relevance to our project. Regional involvement expanded visibility and national support strengthened credibility. On the local level, our collaboration was closely knit with key stakeholders, such as town halls and community organizations. These entities played a pivotal role in furnishing us with profound insights into the cultural nuances and heritage of the local community. Additionally, they facilitated our access to valuable local resources. Engaging with residents, we encouraged them to share their personal stories and cultural traditions, thereby strengthening the authenticity and richness of the overall tourist experience. In conclusion, the Agri-Pension Valea Fagilor not only strictly respects the criteria of inclusion, sustainability, aesthetics and quality, but also manages to revive the feeling of belonging among the local and regional community. By promoting positive interactions between generations and supporting various traditional activities, it becomes an example of a project that contributes to the preservation and promotion of cultural heritage, bringing people closer to their roots.
My project connects heritage and local historical traditions, cultural dynamics through zonal ethnic multiculturalism, offers a contemporary lifestyle and inspires young people, locals, people with disabilities through an example of good motivational practice. The project establishes the sentimental depth of belonging to the area and creates, based on local and regional development strategies, the sustainable future based on resources still owned.
Local engagement brought authenticity and cultural relevance to our project. Regional involvement expanded visibility and national support strengthened credibility. On the local level, our collaboration was closely knit with key stakeholders, such as town halls and community organizations. These entities played a pivotal role in furnishing us with profound insights into the cultural nuances and heritage of the local community. Additionally, they facilitated our access to valuable local resources. Engaging with residents, we encouraged them to share their personal stories and cultural traditions, thereby strengthening the authenticity and richness of the overall tourist experience. In conclusion, the Agri-Pension Valea Fagilor not only strictly respects the criteria of inclusion, sustainability, aesthetics and quality, but also manages to revive the feeling of belonging among the local and regional community. By promoting positive interactions between generations and supporting various traditional activities, it becomes an example of a project that contributes to the preservation and promotion of cultural heritage, bringing people closer to their roots.
Keywords
Heritage
Business
Disability
Environment
Sustainability
