PRIORITY 3 - Support & upgrade of health & social services
The TOUR-HUB – Digital Enhancement of Cultural Heritage and Tourism project is a cross-border initiative which seeks to unlock the potential of shared cultural heritage by combining restoration, digital innovation and community engagement, transforming the cross-border region into a vibrant and accessible cultural tourism destination.
The project takes place in the Regional Unit of Pella in Greece (Municipalities of Almopia and Edessa) and in the Pelagonia region of North Macedonia (Municipality of Novaci and SEMAK NGO in Bitola). These areas are rich in historical landmarks, World War I monuments, traditional cultural sites and natural attractions that remain underutilized due to limited promotion and digital infrastructure.
The Municipality of Almopia, as Lead Beneficiary, will restore key WWI monuments, digitize cultural sites and tourist paths, upgrade the Xenitidio Cultural Centre and install an interactive info-kiosk at the Pozar Thermal Baths. The Municipality of Edessa will establish a Multimedia Museum blending traditional exhibits with 3D and VR experiences, offering both cultural content and conference facilities. The Municipality of Novaci will restore WWI sites such as Zovik Bridge, create a modern Exhibition Center with VR and AR technologies and digitize local cultural landmarks. The NGO SEMAK will focus on training local tourism businesses, developing skills in digital tools, ecotourism and innovation, while also supporting cross-border events and capacity building.
Key deliverables include the restoration and digitalization of at least three cultural and tourist sites, the creation of VR/AR applications and mobile guides, the establishment of a multimedia museum and an exhibition center, info-kiosks, educational games and a common digital platform. Training sessions and cross-border events will complement these tangible outputs, ensuring long-term skills development and sustainability.
The project benefits local communities, tourists, cultural stakeholders, SMEs in the tourism sector and public authorities. Residents gain from improved cultural infrastructure and economic opportunities, while visitors enjoy enriched, accessible cultural experiences. Youth and vulnerable groups are specifically targeted through training in digital tourism and entrepreneurship.
By project completion, TOUR-HUB will support at least 3 cultural and tourism sites, organize 4 cross-border joint actions and workshops, and foster lasting cooperation between 4 partner organizations. Visitor numbers are expected to rise by 5,000 per year, stimulating local economies and generating new jobs in tourism and cultural services. The total budget is €1.11 million, with 80% co-financed by the EU.
Lead Beneficiary
Project Beneficiaries