Our story
Across the Mediterranean, cultural and natural heritage are not only valuable assets to preserve but also key drivers of tourism, local identity and sustainable development. However, these assets are increasingly exposed to the impacts of climate change and human pressures, requiring new approaches that strengthen resilience and support long-term protection.
HERIT ADAPT was designed to address this challenge by bringing together public authorities, researchers, heritage managers and local stakeholders to develop Sustainable Tourism Models for more resilient destinations. Building on the successful results of its Test phase, the project has moved into the Transfer phase, extending the application of its proven methodology to new territories across the Euro-MED region.
During the Test phase, the HERIT ADAPT consortium brought together 11 partners from Greece, Italy, Croatia, Cyprus, Montenegro, Spain, France and Bulgaria, supported by 24 Associated Partners.
In the Transfer phase, the HERIT ADAPT Plus consortium consists of 10 partners from Greece, Italy, Spain, Portugal, North Macedonia and Albania, supported by 28 Associated Partners.
Co-funded by the Interreg Euro-MED Programme, HERIT ADAPT has a total duration of 51 months, covering the Test and Transfer phases, with a total budget of €3.798.740,00. Through the transfer and uptake of its methodology, the project aims to scale up its impact across the region, supporting more communities in protecting their heritage and building more sustainable, climate-resilient tourism destinations.
OUR PARTNERS
Region of Western Greece – Greece (Lead Partner)
The Region of Western Greece (RWG) is one of the 13 administrative regions of Greece representing an area of around 700.000 inhabitants, divided into 3 regional divisions (Ilia, Achaia, and Aitoloakarnania) and 19 municipalities, while it produces about 5% of the total Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of the country. The Regional Authority of Western Greece counts more than 800 employees, spread over 22 Directorates and 2 Special Services: the Intermediate Managing Authority, which is responsible for the implementation of the Regional Operational Programme, and the Regional Development Fund, which is the funding body of it. Apart from that there is also a special division dedicated to the tourist promotion of the Region of Western Greece as a destination.
Industrial Systems Institute/ ATHENA Research and Innovation Centre – Greece
The Industrial Systems Institute (ISI) is one of the institutes of the ATHENA Research Center, operating in Patras, Western Greece, since 1998. As a leading research institute, ISI conducts cutting-edge research and applied innovation in Information and Communication Technologies, supporting both Greek and European industry. Its work focuses on enabling technologies of the 4th Industrial Revolution for the facilitation of the digital and green transition of a multitude of application domains. Its research is applied to different domains including manufacturing, smart cities and buildings, critical infrastructures including energy and transport, smart health, precision agriculture, culture and tourism.
European Public Law Organization – Greece
The European Public Law Organization (EPLO) is an international organization dedicated to the creation and dissemination of knowledge in the area of Public Law lato sensu and Governance, including but not limited to, inter alia, national, comparative and European public law, human rights law and environmental law and the promotion of European values for a better generation of lawyers and democratic institutions worldwide. The EPLO was established in 2007 in Athens, Greece, as the continuation of the European Public Law Center (EPLC), a non-profit institution of international character, established in 1995 under the Law of the Hellenic Republic.
Sapienza Design Research Interdepartmental Center – Italy
Sapienza Design Research Interdepartmental Center (SDR) is the first Interdepartmental University Center in Italy dedicated to Design-driven Innovation. The mission of SDR is to develop research and experimentation projects in the field of Design in favor of Technological and Social Innovation. SDR has significant expertise in the following areas of innovation: research on new innovation platforms for the development of post-industrial societies, with a focus on the cultural impact of digital communication and emerging technologies on production and consumption processes; and the experimental development of innovative products, integrating advanced technologies with environmental, social and economic sustainability throughout the design, engineering, production and use phases.
Municipality of Genoa – Italy
Genoa (Comune di Genova- COMGE) is a city of almost 600.000 inhabitants with thousands of years of history. In 2004, during the events of the Capital of Culture, Genoa was defined “The last art city in Europe still to be discovered.” Since then, Genoa has changed drastically in recent years and a new identity as a cultural and vibrant city emerged, culminating in the recognition as a World Heritage Site of UNESCO in 2006. It became an attractive place for research and industrial innovation and headquarters of a more differentiated service-based economy. The city is successfully completing a non-easy transition from the industrial city to a knowledge-driven model, giving now more room to tourism.
Dubrovnik Development Agency – Croatia
The Dubrovnik Development Agency Ltd. (DURA) is a professional, non-profit organization established by the City of Dubrovnik in 2007 with the primary aim of preparing and implementing EU-funded projects. DURA represents a union between the City and other institutions and organizations relevant to sustainable local development. DURA’s activities include technical support in the preparation of EU-funded projects, preparation of nationally-funded project proposals, management and coordination of projects, support for entrepreneurs, support for NGOs, education, and preparation and drafting of strategic documents for public entities.
Limassol Tourism Development and Promotion Company – Cyprus
The Limassol Tourism Development and Promotion Company (LTC) is a non-profit limited company that was established on September 2007, by the Cyprus Tourism Organization and the Limassol Chamber of Commerce and Industry, in order to assist in the implementation of the Limassol Regional Tourism Strategic Plan. The Chairman of the company is assigned by the Limassol Chamber of Commerce and Industry while the Vice-Chairman is the Mayor of Limassol. Two members of the board are the Mayors of Germasogeia and Mesa Yeitonia. Additionally, members of the board are representatives of the Deputy Ministry of Tourism, the Cyprus Hotels Association, the Association of Cyprus Tourism Enterprises, Association of Cyprus Travel Agents, and the Communities Union of the region.
Old Royal Capital Cetinje – Montenegro
Old Royal Capital Cetinje (PCT/ORCC) is a local authority and it operates as a local self-government unit. Its main activities include administrative and financial public services, development of spatial and urban plans, infrastructure development, organization of local public service providers, inspections, establishment of municipal bodies, organizations, and services. One of the main fields of local development is dedicated to Energy, Agriculture, Tourism, Creative Industries, and ICT. Cetinje was proclaimed an Energy City by the United Nations in 2014 and joined the Sustainable Energy for All Global Energy Efficiency Accelerator Platform, contributing to the global objective of doubling energy efficiency improvements by 2030. In 2023 Cetinje entered the UNESCO Creative Cities Network in the sector of Design, making it the first city in the sector of Design in the Balkans.
University of Granada – Spain
The University of Granada (UGR), founded in 1531, is one of the largest and most important universities in Spain, with over 80.000 undergraduate and postgraduate students and staff, offering 96 degrees, 116 master’s degrees and 28 doctoral programmes. UGR is also a leading institution in research, and is one of the few Spanish Universities listed in the Shanghai Top 500 ranking, being the 2th highest ranked University in Spain. The UGR is leading partner of the Andalusian Institute for Research and Innovation in Tourism (IATUR) together with the Universities of Seville and Málaga, with the aim to carry out research of excellence in the field of tourism. The Faculties involved in HERIT-ADAPT Project are the Faculty of Fine Arts and the Faculty of Economics and Business Administration.
Ministry of Tourism of the Republic of Bulgaria – Bulgaria
The Ministry of Tourism of the Republic of Bulgaria (MTRB) is responsible for creating the conditions for stable tourism growth and implementing the country’s tourism policy. Its priorities contribute to a more competitive economy with higher added value and an improved quality of life for Bulgarian citizens. The Ministry promotes sustainable tourism development based on increased productivity, competitiveness, advanced technologies, innovation and modern policies. It supports both established tourism sectors and emerging areas with growth potential, fostering sustainable development, investment and a business-friendly environment through simple and transparent procedures.
Sud de France Development – France
Sud de France Development (SDFD – ADOCC) is the Occitanie Attractiveness and Development Agency created by the Occitanie Region. It provides consulting and strategic support to companies in the region to stimulate their innovation, competitiveness and access to international markets. By structuring key sectors such as aeronautics and agri-food, AD’OCC brings together economic stakeholders and facilitates connections with investors and research centers. Particular attention is paid to the tourism sector, the second largest driver of the regional economy, to promote the region’s attractiveness.
Andalusian Regional Ministry of Tourism and Andalucia Exterior – Spain
The Andalusian Regional Ministry of Tourism and Andalucía (ANDTUR) is the official government department responsible for promoting, regulating and developing the tourism and sports sectors across southern Spain, focusing in advancing sustainable, resilient and climate-adaptive frameworks. It plays an active role in European tourism networks as Executive Vice-President of NECSTouR and leads the Tourism of Tomorrow Lab, contributing to EU policy discussions and cooperation. Under the Statute of Autonomy of Andalucía, it holds full legal competence for the development and implementation of tourism policies. Its Strategic Tourism Plan 2021–2027 places sustainability, climate adaptation and territorial cohesion at the core of regional tourism development, in alignment with the Andalusian Climate Action Plan (PAAC).
IrRADIARE – Portugal
IrRADIARE is a research and innovation organisation with expertise in sustainable territorial development, tourism strategies, cultural and natural heritage valorisation, and stakeholder engagement. Its work focuses on supporting public authorities and multi-actor partnerships in designing and implementing evidence-based, innovation-driven policies, including the integration of digital solutions into territorial governance. Through a multidisciplinary approach that combines technological innovation with local knowledge, IrRADIARE develops solutions that promote climate adaptation, sustainable resource management, social inclusion and community resilience.
Saranda Municipality – Albania
Saranda Municipality (SARANDA) applies regional approaches and implements integrated and complex projects ensuring sustainable social and economic development in its region. A main focus among others is the development of tourism sector through concrete projects which directly impact the sector, as well as the development of studies and intervention plans at regional level and innovative development policies which can be translated into results with a long-term impact on citizens’ welfare. SARANDA promotes the development of tourism through targeted interventions, studies and regional action plans, contributing to the creation of resilient and competitive local destinations.
Municipality of Ohrid – Republic of North Macedonia
Ohrid Municipality (OHRID) is one of 80 municipalities in the country and belongs to the South West planning region occupying part of Ohrid-Struga valley, Lake Ohrid and part of Galicica National Park. Ohrid, with its natural, cultural, spiritual and historical features, is the most developed tourist and cultural center, not only in the Republic of North Macedonia, but also in the Balkans and wider Europe and the World. Ohrid city and the Ohrid Lake are under the protection of UNESCO since 1979. The Municipality has extensive experience with EU-funded programs related to sustainable development, particularly in environment and tourism underscoring its commitment to sustainable tourism development and inclusive growth through innovative and environmentally friendly practices.
Museums and Monuments of Portugal-P.B.E.-Public Business Entity – Portugal
Museums and Monuments of Portugal (MMP) is the national public business entity which is responsible for the management, conservation and promotion of a significant part of Portugal’s cultural heritage, including 37 museums, 4 palaces, 39 classified national properties, 16 National Museums and 6 UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Acting under the supervision of the Portuguese State, MMP implements the national museological policy. It coordinates the Portuguese Museum Network and manages the State Contemporary Art Collection. It supports conservation, restoration, research, communication as well as public engagement activities across the whole country. MMP is also connected to important international networks, including NEMO, Ibermuseus and ICOMOS-related structures.
Our story
Across the Mediterranean, cultural and natural heritage are not only valuable assets to preserve but also key drivers of tourism, local identity and sustainable development. However, these assets are increasingly exposed to the impacts of climate change and human pressures, requiring new approaches that strengthen resilience and support long-term protection.
HERIT ADAPT was designed to address this challenge by bringing together public authorities, researchers, heritage managers and local stakeholders to develop Sustainable Tourism Models for more resilient destinations. Building on the successful results of its Test phase, the project has moved into the Transfer phase, extending the application of its proven methodology to new territories across the Euro-MED region.
During the Test phase, the HERIT ADAPT consortium brought together 11 partners from Greece, Italy, Croatia, Cyprus, Montenegro, Spain, France and Bulgaria, supported by 24 Associated Partners.
In the Transfer phase, the HERIT ADAPT Plus consortium consists of 10 partners from Greece, Italy, Spain, Portugal, North Macedonia and Albania, supported by 28 Associated Partners.
Co-funded by the Interreg Euro-MED Programme, HERIT ADAPT has a total duration of 51 months, covering the Test and Transfer phases, with a total budget of €3.798.740,00. Through the transfer and uptake of its methodology, the project aims to scale up its impact across the region, supporting more communities in protecting their heritage and building more sustainable, climate-resilient tourism destinations.
OUR PARTNERS
Region of Western Greece – Greece (LEAD PARTNER)
The Region of Western Greece (RWG) is one of the 13 administrative regions of Greece representing an area of around 700.000 inhabitants, divided into 3 regional divisions (Ilia, Achaia, and Aitoloakarnania) and 19 municipalities, while it produces about 5% of the total Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of the country. The Regional Authority of Western Greece counts more than 800 employees, spread over 22 Directorates and 2 Special Services: the Intermediate Managing Authority, which is responsible for the implementation of the Regional Operational Programme, and the Regional Development Fund, which is the funding body of it. Apart from that there is also a special division dedicated to the tourist promotion of the Region of Western Greece as a destination.
Industrial Systems Institute/ ATHENA Research and Innovation Centre – Greece
The Industrial Systems Institute (ISI) is one of the institutes of the ATHENA Research Center, operating in Patras, Western Greece, since 1998. As a leading research institute, ISI conducts cutting-edge research and applied innovation in Information and Communication Technologies, supporting both Greek and European industry. Its work focuses on enabling technologies of the 4th Industrial Revolution for the facilitation of the digital and green transition of a multitude of application domains. Its research is applied to different domains including manufacturing, smart cities and buildings, critical infrastructures including energy and transport, smart health, precision agriculture, culture and tourism.
European Public Law Organization – Greece
The European Public Law Organization (EPLO) is an international organization dedicated to the creation and dissemination of knowledge in the area of Public Law lato sensu and Governance, including but not limited to, inter alia, national, comparative and European public law, human rights law and environmental law and the promotion of European values for a better generation of lawyers and democratic institutions worldwide. The EPLO was established in 2007 in Athens, Greece, as the continuation of the European Public Law Center (EPLC), a non-profit institution of international character, established in 1995 under the Law of the Hellenic Republic.
Sapienza Design Research Interdepartmental Center – Italy
Sapienza Design Research Interdepartmental Center (SDR) is the first Interdepartmental University Center in Italy dedicated to Design-driven Innovation. The mission of SDR is to develop research and experimentation projects in the field of Design in favor of Technological and Social Innovation. SDR has significant expertise in the following areas of innovation: research on new innovation platforms for the development of post-industrial societies, with a focus on the cultural impact of digital communication and emerging technologies on production and consumption processes; and the experimental development of innovative products, integrating advanced technologies with environmental, social and economic sustainability throughout the design, engineering, production and use phases.
Municipality of Genoa – Italy
Genoa (Comune di Genova- COMGE) is a city of almost 600.000 inhabitants with thousands of years of history. In 2004, during the events of the Capital of Culture, Genoa was defined “The last art city in Europe still to be discovered.” Since then, Genoa has changed drastically in recent years and a new identity as a cultural and vibrant city emerged, culminating in the recognition as a World Heritage Site of UNESCO in 2006. It became an attractive place for research and industrial innovation and headquarters of a more differentiated service-based economy. The city is successfully completing a non-easy transition from the industrial city to a knowledge-driven model, giving now more room to tourism.
Dubrovnik Development Agency – Croatia
The Dubrovnik Development Agency Ltd. (DURA) is a professional, non-profit organization established by the City of Dubrovnik in 2007 with the primary aim of preparing and implementing EU-funded projects. DURA represents a union between the City and other institutions and organizations relevant to sustainable local development. DURA’s activities include technical support in the preparation of EU-funded projects, preparation of nationally-funded project proposals, management and coordination of projects, support for entrepreneurs, support for NGOs, education, and preparation and drafting of strategic documents for public entities.
Limassol Tourism Development and Promotion Company – Cyprus
The Limassol Tourism Development and Promotion Company (LTC) is a non-profit limited company that was established on September 2007, by the Cyprus Tourism Organization and the Limassol Chamber of Commerce and Industry, in order to assist in the implementation of the Limassol Regional Tourism Strategic Plan. The Chairman of the company is assigned by the Limassol Chamber of Commerce and Industry while the Vice-Chairman is the Mayor of Limassol. Two members of the board are the Mayors of Germasogeia and Mesa Yeitonia. Additionally, members of the board are representatives of the Deputy Ministry of Tourism, the Cyprus Hotels Association, the Association of Cyprus Tourism Enterprises, Association of Cyprus Travel Agents, and the Communities Union of the region.
Old Royal Capital Cetinje – Montenegro
Old Royal Capital Cetinje (PCT/ORCC) is a local authority and it operates as a local self-government unit. Its main activities include administrative and financial public services, development of spatial and urban plans, infrastructure development, organization of local public service providers, inspections, establishment of municipal bodies, organizations, and services. One of the main fields of local development is dedicated to Energy, Agriculture, Tourism, Creative Industries, and ICT. Cetinje was proclaimed an Energy City by the United Nations in 2014 and joined the Sustainable Energy for All Global Energy Efficiency Accelerator Platform, contributing to the global objective of doubling energy efficiency improvements by 2030. In 2023 Cetinje entered the UNESCO Creative Cities Network in the sector of Design, making it the first city in the sector of Design in the Balkans.
University of Granada – Spain
The University of Granada (UGR), founded in 1531, is one of the largest and most important universities in Spain, with over 80.000 undergraduate and postgraduate students and staff, offering 96 degrees, 116 master’s degrees and 28 doctoral programmes. UGR is also a leading institution in research, and is one of the few Spanish Universities listed in the Shanghai Top 500 ranking, being the 2th highest ranked University in Spain. The UGR is leading partner of the Andalusian Institute for Research and Innovation in Tourism (IATUR) together with the Universities of Seville and Málaga, with the aim to carry out research of excellence in the field of tourism. The Faculties involved in HERIT-ADAPT Project are the Faculty of Fine Arts and the Faculty of Economics and Business Administration.
Ministry of Tourism of the Republic of Bulgaria – Bulgaria
The Ministry of Tourism of the Republic of Bulgaria (MTRB) is responsible for creating the conditions for stable tourism growth and implementing the country’s tourism policy. Its priorities contribute to a more competitive economy with higher added value and an improved quality of life for Bulgarian citizens. The Ministry promotes sustainable tourism development based on increased productivity, competitiveness, advanced technologies, innovation and modern policies. It supports both established tourism sectors and emerging areas with growth potential, fostering sustainable development, investment and a business-friendly environment through simple and transparent procedures.
Sud de France Development – France
Sud de France Development (SDFD – ADOCC) is the Occitanie Attractiveness and Development Agency created by the Occitanie Region. It provides consulting and strategic support to companies in the region to stimulate their innovation, competitiveness and access to international markets. By structuring key sectors such as aeronautics and agri-food, AD’OCC brings together economic stakeholders and facilitates connections with investors and research centers. Particular attention is paid to the tourism sector, the second largest driver of the regional economy, to promote the region’s attractiveness.
Andalusian Regional Ministry of Tourism and Andalucia Exterior – Spain
The Andalusian Regional Ministry of Tourism and Andalucía (ANDTUR) is the official government department responsible for promoting, regulating and developing the tourism and sports sectors across southern Spain, focusing in advancing sustainable, resilient and climate-adaptive frameworks. It plays an active role in European tourism networks as Executive Vice-President of NECSTouR and leads the Tourism of Tomorrow Lab, contributing to EU policy discussions and cooperation. Under the Statute of Autonomy of Andalucía, it holds full legal competence for the development and implementation of tourism policies. Its Strategic Tourism Plan 2021–2027 places sustainability, climate adaptation and territorial cohesion at the core of regional tourism development, in alignment with the Andalusian Climate Action Plan (PAAC).
IrRADIARE – Portugal
IrRADIARE is a research and innovation organisation with expertise in sustainable territorial development, tourism strategies, cultural and natural heritage valorisation, and stakeholder engagement. Its work focuses on supporting public authorities and multi-actor partnerships in designing and implementing evidence-based, innovation-driven policies, including the integration of digital solutions into territorial governance. Through a multidisciplinary approach that combines technological innovation with local knowledge, IrRADIARE develops solutions that promote climate adaptation, sustainable resource management, social inclusion and community resilience.
Saranda Municipality – Albania
Saranda Municipality (SARANDA) applies regional approaches and implements integrated and complex projects ensuring sustainable social and economic development in its region. A main focus among others is the development of tourism sector through concrete projects which directly impact the sector, as well as the development of studies and intervention plans at regional level and innovative development policies which can be translated into results with a long-term impact on citizens’ welfare. SARANDA promotes the development of tourism through targeted interventions, studies and regional action plans, contributing to the creation of resilient and competitive local destinations.
Municipality of Ohrid – Republic of North Macedonia
Ohrid Municipality (OHRID) is one of 80 municipalities in the country and belongs to the South West planning region occupying part of Ohrid-Struga valley, Lake Ohrid and part of Galicica National Park. Ohrid, with its natural, cultural, spiritual and historical features, is the most developed tourist and cultural center, not only in the Republic of North Macedonia, but also in the Balkans and wider Europe and the World. Ohrid city and the Ohrid Lake are under the protection of UNESCO since 1979. The Municipality has extensive experience with EU-funded programs related to sustainable development, particularly in environment and tourism underscoring its commitment to sustainable tourism development and inclusive growth through innovative and environmentally friendly practices.
Museums and Monuments of Portugal-P.B.E.-Public Business Entity – Portugal
Museums and Monuments of Portugal (MMP) is the national public business entity which is responsible for the management, conservation and promotion of a significant part of Portugal’s cultural heritage, including 37 museums, 4 palaces, 39 classified national properties, 16 National Museums and 6 UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Acting under the supervision of the Portuguese State, MMP implements the national museological policy. It coordinates the Portuguese Museum Network and manages the State Contemporary Art Collection. It supports conservation, restoration, research, communication as well as public engagement activities across the whole country. MMP is also connected to important international networks, including NEMO, Ibermuseus and ICOMOS-related structures.
