JemsROMANICA
Priority Axis 4: Sustainable and inclusive tourism and culture
Operation start date: 15 July 2026
Operation completion date: 14 July 2028
Budget: EUR 1.836.681,60
Number of partners: 6
Operation purpose and expected achievements:
The ROMANICA project aims to enhance the preservation, interpretation, and sustainable tourism valorisation of Roman cultural heritage in Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Montenegro by revitalising key archaeological sites and developing an integrated cross-border heritage tourism offer. The project addresses common challenges related to the underutilisation of Roman heritage, fragmented institutional cooperation, limited accessibility, insufficient digital interpretation, and the concentration of tourism in a small number of destinations. Planned activities include the non-invasive archaeological documentation of Roman sites using advanced technologies such as LiDAR, photogrammetry, drone surveys, and 3D modelling, the revitalisation of the Roman Heritage Interpretation Centre in Biograd na Moru, the Roman Baths in Budva, and the educational trail in Stržanj, as well as the development of multilingual interpretive content, virtual tours, educational programmes, cultural events, and a joint GIS database. Through investments in cultural infrastructure, digital innovation, professional capacity building, community engagement, and cross-border cooperation, the project will strengthen the capacities of cultural institutions and public authorities to preserve Roman heritage, improve visitor experiences, promote inclusive and sustainable cultural tourism, and contribute to balanced regional development across the Programme area.
Beneficiaries:
The Lead Partner (LP), University of Zadar (HR) is responsible for the overall coordination and management of the project. It oversees project implementation, financial and administrative management, partner coordination, reporting, and quality assurance. The University leads archaeological research and scientific validation, coordinates documentation and digital interpretation of Roman heritage sites, develops joint methodologies and the GIS database, and ensures the long-term sustainability and transferability of project results across the Programme area.
City of Biograd na Moru (HR) is responsible for implementing infrastructure investments in Croatia through the establishment of the Roman Heritage Interpretation Centre in Biograd na Moru. The City coordinates local implementation, supports the development of visitor infrastructure, organises communication and promotional events, leads cultural-tourism activities, and contributes to the long-term management and sustainability of project investments.
International Centre for Underwater Archaeology in Zadar (HR) provides specialised expertise in underwater archaeology, heritage conservation, and digital documentation. It supports archaeological research, underwater surveys, documentation and interpretation of submerged Roman heritage, contributes to the preparation of educational and interpretive content, and strengthens professional capacity building and cross-border knowledge exchange.
Franciscan Museum Tomislavgrad (BA) is responsible for implementing project activities related to the Roman road at Stržanj and the interpretation of inland Roman heritage. It coordinates the development of educational content and thematic trails, organises training programmes, workshops and community events, supports the digitisation and interpretation of archaeological findings, and contributes to promoting sustainable cultural tourism across the Programme area.
University of Montenegro – Institute of Interdisciplinary and Multidisciplinary Studies / Center of Archaeology (ME) provides scientific and technical expertise in underwater archaeology, maritime heritage, and digital technologies. It leads activities related to underwater archaeological research and documentation, develops interpretive and educational content, supports virtual and digital heritage solutions, participates in professional training and knowledge transfer, and contributes to the sustainable valorisation of Roman maritime heritage across the Programme area.
Municipality of Budva (ME) is responsible for implementing pilot investments in Montenegro through the revitalisation and interpretation of the Roman Baths site. It supports the development of inclusive visitor infrastructure, digital interpretation tools, promotional activities and cultural events, engages local stakeholders, and contributes to the long-term preservation, promotion, and sustainable management of Roman heritage throughout the Programme area.