Hungarian and Slovakian Towns Revitalize cultural Heritage with EU funding
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Two historic towns, Vác in Hungary and Ipolyság in Slovakia, are embarking on ambitious revitalization projects, breathing new life into aging buildings and fostering a renewed sense of community. The initiative, fueled by a notable grant from the Interreg Hungary-Slovakia HUSK-2023 program, promises to transform these towns into cultural hubs.
The “Lasting Local Heritage” project, a joint effort between the Danube Bend Foundation and the municipalities, secured over €3.6 million in funding. approximately 80% of the funds are allocated to Ipolyság,while the remaining 20% will support the renovation of a gallery in Vác.
Vác: A Gallery’s Grand Conversion
In Vác,a 13-year-old gallery located at Káptalan utca 16 is slated for a complete overhaul. The gallery, home to the private collection of art collector László Papp, will receive a much-needed renovation, creating a space worthy of its notable collection and the town’s cultural heritage. The project aims to restore the building to its former glory, transforming it into a modern, welcoming space for the community.
The building, previously under the management of the Vác City Municipality, had fallen into disrepair. The renovation will not only restore the building’s aesthetic appeal but also upgrade its functionality to meet modern standards. The goal is to create “one of Vác’s open and unique exhibition spaces and community centers.”
Ipolyság: A New Cultural Center Takes Shape
In Ipolyság, the focus is on transforming a former health center, a building dating back to before 1928, into a state-of-the-art cultural center.The 800-square-meter building, vacant since 2005, will undergo a complete renovation and expansion. The project envisions creating a modern ballroom, exhibition space, editing rooms, and training rooms.The outdoor area will also be enhanced, preserving a nearly 100-year-old sycamore tree.
The planned Bartók Béla Cultural Center is designed to be more than just a building; it’s envisioned as a vibrant community hub. This project represents the first phase of a larger investment, with plans for a future theater hall expansion.
the collaboration between Vác and Ipolyság exemplifies the power of cross-border partnerships. The project promises a rich calendar of joint events,including lectures,exhibitions,concerts,and workshops,showcasing the region’s artistic talent and fostering cultural exchange. The renovated spaces will serve as vital community centers, enriching the lives of residents and attracting visitors from far and wide.
The renovation of the Vác gallery is on schedule, with building permits secured and plans underway. Public procurement is expected to begin in the first quarter of 2025, with project completion anticipated by November 30, 2026. The total funding for the Vác portion of the project is €572,732.
This initiative demonstrates the transformative power of international collaboration and the commitment to preserving and celebrating cultural heritage. The revitalized spaces in Vác and Ipolyság will serve as beacons of cultural vibrancy for years to come.
Cross-Border Revitalization: Vác and Ipolyság Breathe New Life into Cultural Heritage
The towns of Vác, Hungary, and Ipolyság, slovakia, are demonstrating a unique approach to cultural preservation. A collaborative effort, bolstered by critically important EU funding through the Interreg Hungary-Slovakia HUSK-2023 program, aims to revitalize historic buildings and cultivate vibrant cultural hubs for these communities. Today, we’ll speak with Dr. Helena Markovits, an expert in UNESCO World Heritage Sites and cultural development, to delve into this exciting project’s details.
EU Funding: A Catalyst for Cultural Revival
Senior Editor: Dr. Markovits,thank you for joining us. Can you elaborate on the role EU funding plays in these revitalization projects?
Dr. Helena Markovits: Certainly. The Interreg Program, designed to promote cross-border cooperation, is playing a pivotal role. The “Lasting Local Heritage” project, which Vác and Ipolyság jointly pursued, secured over €3.6 million — a testament to the project’s potential impact. This funding is crucial for transforming these towns into cultural magnets.
Vác: A Gallery’s Conversion
Senior Editor: Let’s turn to Vác. How will this EU funding impact the town’s gallery?
Dr.Helena Markovits: The gallery located at Káptalan utca 16 in Vác holds a significant art collection amassed by collector László Papp.Regrettably, the building itself was in dire need of renovation. Thanks to the EU grant, the gallery will undergo a complete revamp, creating a modern, welcoming exhibition space reflective of Vác’s rich artistic heritage.
Ipolyság: A Cultural Center Rises
Senior Editor: And what about Ipolyság?
Dr. Helena Markovits: Ipolyság’s project is equally remarkable. They’re transforming a former health center dating back to before 1928 into a state-of-the-art cultural center.Think modern ballroom, exhibition space, editing rooms, and training rooms — a truly multi-functional community hub. This center,named after the renowned composer Béla Bartók,signifies the town’s commitment to preserving its cultural legacy.
Fostering Cross-Border Collaboration through culture
Senior Editor: Can you speak to the significance of this cross-border collaboration?
Dr. Helena Markovits: This collaboration is truly groundbreaking. Vác and Ipolyság are not only restoring historic buildings but also forging stronger ties within the region. The shared calendar of events – lectures, concerts, workshops – will showcase the artistic talent on both sides of the border, fostering cultural exchange and mutual understanding. These projects are not just about buildings; they’re about building bridges and promoting regional unity.
Senior Editor: Dr. Markovits, thank you for shedding light on this inspiring project.
