As part of the project GIFTSnet – Network for Green and Inclusive Fortified Tourism Solutions, the second project team meeting and the first partners’ gathering of the GIFTS network were held on 5 June 2025 at Kino Edison in Karlovac.
The first part of the programme included a working meeting of project partners from Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Montenegro – including partners from Šibenik, Banja Luka, Bar, Karlovac, Trebinje and Ulcinj. The discussions focused on the progress of project activities, exchange of experiences, and the evaluation of the Night of Fortresses 2025 event.
The second part of the event was dedicated to the development of the GIFTS network, a European platform that brings together cultural stakeholders to share knowledge and develop sustainable approaches to heritage management. In addition to project partners, the meeting gathered cultural professionals from Karlovac County, representatives of institutions involved in the Night of Fortresses, and other participants interested in cultural tourism cooperation.
Partners from Šibenik and Trebinje presented examples of successfully implemented projects in their institutions. An introductory presentation about the creation of the GIFTS network highlighted the importance of collaboration and knowledge-sharing to strengthen capacities for sustainable heritage management. It was also announced that the first cross-border capacity-building workshop will be held in Šibenik in October 2025, focusing on the topic “Sustainable management of cultural tourism destinations and events.”
The network is open to new members, and applications can be submitted via the Night of Fortresses Goes Green website: Gifts network.
In the final part of the programme, the Branding Strategy for the Night of Fortresses in the Italy–Croatia programme area was presented. This strategy was developed within the FORTIC project (Interreg Italy–Croatia), and it also provided a framework for the future development of the event’s identity through GIFTS network activities.
The meeting concluded with a guided visit to Dubovac Old Town, showcasing good practice in preserving and presenting local cultural heritage.
