#CULTROUTE Heritage Preservation Forum: research, restoration, and revitalization of historic sites
As part of European Heritage Days 2026, within the framework of the “Thematic Castle Route 2” (CULT.ROUTE) project under the Interreg VI-A NEXT Hungary–Slovakia–Romania–Ukraine program, a Heritage Preservation Forum was held at the Potocki Palace.
The event brought together architects, restorers, historians, scholars, representatives of cultural institutions, and experts working in the fields of research, preservation, and development of historical heritage.
The Forum began with an opening presentation by Zenoviy Fedunkiv, which focused on the study of heritage sites and the enhancement of their tourism potential, using the historic Halych region of the Rus Voivodeship as an example.
During the first panel discussion, participants addressed the issues and challenges involved in the research, preservation, and adaptation of palace and castle complexes. Topics included reimagining historical heritage, preserving identity during functional adaptation, and the importance of architectural research for the tourist interpretation of defensive structures.
The second panel discussion focused on global and Ukrainian experiences in restoration. Topics included new research on Halych Castle, grant opportunities, volunteer initiatives in the revitalization of castle complexes, archaeological research on the Potocki Palace, and the integration of archaeological sites into the modern environment.
During the third panel, participants discussed the practical implementation of restoration and adaptation projects. Participants presented their experience working with palace-and-park ensembles, castle complexes, and historic interiors, and shared case studies on the development of territories and local communities based on cultural heritage.
An important topic at the forum was the balance between preserving the authenticity of historic sites and their contemporary use. After all, restoration is not just about rebuilding physical structures, but also about finding new ways to make our heritage understandable, accessible, and valuable to modern society.
For more photos from the Heritage Preservation Forum, follow this link: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1zhKU6-CyQeM7FFiPo1P-wnrcP1OyWwem?usp=sharing
This publication has been produced with the financial assistance of the European Union. Its contents are the sole responsibility of the Executive Committee of Ivano-Frankivsk City Council and do not necessarily reflect the views of the European Union.
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