The cross-border area of the municipality of Berane (Montenegro) and Shkodër County (Albania) is rich in undiscovered archaeological sites from different periods. However, this area is still economically underdeveloped, as little has been done to valorise it.
Tumbarice Castrum near Berane was covered by soil and dense forest, while local farmers in Albania only collected fragments of Hoti Basilica in Kastrat, the municipality of Malësi e Madhe prior to archaeological excavations. This project aims to connect these two locations and develop a new sightseeing tour, which will attract more tourists and contribute to the local economy. In other words, the project supports the economic growth of the area through the valorisation of its tourism potential. It seeks to preserve cultural heritage, including Christian archaeological heritage, and prevent its further devastation.
The project connects for the first time relevant individuals and experts working in the field of archaeology in the cross border area, who will be able to exchange their knowledge and experience. This will lay the foundations for their future cooperation and spur interest among young people to engage in archaeology and tourism. The project also contributes to establishing a better link between the sectors of culture, tourism and archaeology, which is particularly important in the cross-border context.
