FEEL Partnership visit Bistrita
Bistrita Municipality hosted a Study Visit on the 2nd & 3rd of October showcasing sufficiency and sobriete activities developed in the region. Beginning with a shortened tour of the ‘Transilvanica’ route, delegates experienced some of the natural history stretching 1400km through 14 counties, north to south across Romania. The route connects the traditions, cultural heritage and communities of the region allowing capacity building and learning how to protect these beautiful villages and historical monuments. Tourists can choose to walk or cycle sections of the route over multiple days.
After travelling back to Bistrita, delegates visited the city centre to explore the historical gates, cultural courtyards and see the rehabilitation of a house façade using low-tech and sufficiency actions. The renovation of 15 Sincai Street is focused on low tech methods including lime plastering and locally sourced labour all without the use of electricity. The Historical Gate initiative is an action to involve the local community in preserving their beautiful architecturally protected gates.
Day two saw the delegates visiting the Ambulance for Monuments Bistrita-Nasaud Project. Buildings in the region have been degraded over time with some listed as endangered and close to collapse. The Project engages with volunteer, experts, students and trained craftsmen to rejuvenate the building with the support of the local community. By integrating residents in preserving the buildings, the action is empowering communities and harnessing local resources, saving costs and improving traditional building skills.
Upcoming for the FEEL Partnership is further interregional learning in 2025 with a focus on importing good practices and adapting policy for sufficiency in their respective regions.