On Monday in Velika Gorica, the presentation of the significant EU project "InterWine: Combining cultural heritage and tourism to create a sustainable cross-border destination" took place. The project, valued at EUR 1,383,080.02, received co-financing from the European Fund for Regional Development under the cross-border cooperation program Interreg Slovenia-Croatia. This initiative unites seven partners from Croatia and Slovenia to develop an innovative tourist offering that integrates cultural heritage and the traditions of winemaking and viticulture. The overarching aim is to foster sustainable development and enhance the region's tourist appeal.
Ivana Alilović, Director of the Zagreb County Tourist Board and project manager for InterWine, highlighted the significance of this project for the region's continued development and the reinforcement of its tourist identity. She stated, "The InterWine project provides an excellent opportunity to unite our cultural and wine-related values and showcase them in the European market. By combining the strengths of Croatia and Slovenia, we are establishing a sustainable tourism offering that will support the growth of local communities and the economy. This initiative will attract tourists and enable local producers to present their wines and cultural heritage to a broader audience."
The InterWine project encompasses three main areas—Velika Gorica, Pušća, and Brežice in Slovenia. Specially equipped rooms will showcase these areas' rich cultural heritage and wine traditions. The InterWine premises will act as a meeting point for local wine producers and cultural workers, aiming to promote regional tourism development.
Backing local government and project partners
"Velika Gorica will benefit from this project, as it will elevate the city as a destination that seamlessly integrates tradition, culture, and eno-gastronomy. The InterWine project not only enhances the tourism offerings of our region but also paves the way for sustainable tourism, a topic of recent extensive discussion. We take pride in participating in this cross-border initiative that forges connections between our community and neighbouring regions in Slovenia. With the development of the designated space through this project, we continue to enhance the historical centre of our city," stated Krešimir Ačkar, the mayor of Velika Gorica and a member of parliament, underscoring the project's significance for the local community.
The Mayor of Pušća Municipality, Filip Bernardić, expressed his contentment with the collaboration. "We take pride in our involvement in this cross-border project, which will enhance the tourist offerings of Pušće. We are confident that the project will further advance our wine tradition and empower local winegrowers to enhance their market positioning. This endeavour reinforces the tourist attractions and advocates for sustainability and economic growth in rural areas," stated Bernardić during the project presentation.
The State Secretary of the Ministry of Regional Development and European Union Funds, Kristina Bilić, and Igor Radić, an advisor to the Minister of Tourism and Sports, endorsed this significant EU project to benefit the region.
Explore the Power of Cross-Border Collaboration for Thriving Tourism Development!
The panel discussion titled "How underdeveloped wine regions become attractive: creating a tourist product through wine tourism" involved five panellists who emphasised the importance of connecting local winemakers, cultural heritage, and tourist communities to create a unique product. The panellists discussed the significance of sustainable development and integration of wine and cultural offerings in contributing to the economic growth of smaller rural regions. They also highlighted the need for additional investments in infrastructure, education of local stakeholders, and promotion of wine routes on international markets. The panellists suggested that collaborative efforts, such as participating in cross-border projects like InterWine, could improve wine tourism, create new jobs, and enhance the region's global recognition.
The forum was graced by the presence of esteemed individuals, including the director of the Zagreb County Tourist Board and InterWine project manager, Ivana Alilović; Slavija Jačan Obratov, director of the Sector for Brand Development and Tourist Products of the Croatian Tourist Board; asst. Dr. Anja Mlakar, a professor from the Faculty of Tourism at the University of Maribor; Filip Bernardić, Mayor of the Municipality of Pušća; and Marko Kos, Head of the Department of Agriculture of the City of Velika Gorica. The consensus reached at the panel discussion was that initiatives of this nature will not only enhance the local tourism offerings but also guarantee the enduring sustainability and adaptability of destinations.
The InterWine project, spanning a duration of 30 months, encompasses various activities including the development of novel tourism products, education of key stakeholders, and the promotion of tourist destinations through both online platforms and physical elements. The ultimate objective of the project is to establish identifiable tourist routes that interconnect the Croatian and Slovenian regions, with a focus on utilizing cultural and wine heritage as a central theme. Additionally, the project partners will compile an "InterWine manual" and formalize an Agreement for future cooperation to ensure the sustainability of outcomes and ongoing collaboration beyond the project's conclusion.
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