Pomorie and Burgas are advancing their Interreg initiatives by building on the success of 2014-2020 projects.
The Municipality of Pomorie, in partnership with the Trakya Development Agency (Türkiye) and Community Center “Prosveta 1888” aims to boost tourism by showcasing cultural heritage, natural beauty and gastronomy. A key component of this effort is the renovation of a historic building in Pomorie that used to be the District Court in the past. It is part of a protected architectural ensemble and will be transformed into the “House of Culture and Traditions”.
A similar project has already been successfully realised with Interreg support. A landmark house in the city centre was remodelled into the “House of the Arts”. The architectural authenticity was preserved and since 2021 it is functioning as a cultural hub, featuring ground-floor art-club exhibition space, rooms for acting, drawing, singing, dancing and cultural training for children.
A few kilometres to the west lies the Aquae Calidae archaeological complex. In 2019 the Regional Historical Museum in Burgas completed its revitalisation with a project backed by the Bulgaria-Türkiye cooperation programme. The conservation works preserved Roman and Byzantine structures, including a cold pool and underground passages. The site was further enhanced with visitor-friendly pathways and decorative lighting.
This investment will now be extended through another phase of restoration. Aquae Calidae will have its fortress tower and early Byzantine bath rebuilt with original materials. In the new project, the Burgas History museum is collaborating with Kırklareli Provincial Directorate of Culture and Tourism, Kırklareli Maturity Institute and the Municipality of Kameno.
Representatives of the Joint Secretariat and the European Commission toured the sites, witnessing the achievements and getting a first-hand look at the ongoing Interreg projects.
“For us, it was clear from the very beginning nine years ago that these investments would be complex, but well worth undertaking. Now we see that every effort has paid off and I hope to build on this success with new projects ahead”, said the Head of the Joint Secretariat of the programme, Nalyan Gyudzhen.
Margarita Grantcharska-De Muynck, programme manager at DG Regio in the European Commission, pointed out that these projects are notable examples how Interreg revives natural, cultural and historical heritage. “Both initiatives transmit the timeless majesty of history. They are full with life and very well managed. In the 2028-2034 period, we will continue to prioritise investments with this sustainability and quality”, she added.
