Thematic NONA site visits in Koroška: exploring new development and business opportunities for a green and just transition

The NONA and BauNow project and associated partners had the opportunity to explore and visit several sites surrounding Ravne na Koroškem. The town itself lies in the diverse area of the lower Meža valley and is squeezed in a wide basin surrounded by rich forests. In the background stands the Uršlja mountain. This is the most populated area in all of the region Koroška and Ravne is the largest town and presents the economic, educational, sports, cultural and civic centre of the valley and Koroška generally. In many ways it breaches the borders of its lands of Koroška. It is the town of ironworkers, Forma Viva steel sculptures and a profusion of books. 

During their stay participants had the opportunity to explore several key sites in Koroška, each showcasing the region's potential for green development, business growth, and cultural revitalisation. The thematic site visits provided an immersive look into the area's efforts toward a sustainable and just transition. The Old Ironworks (Stara železarna) as a cornerstone of the NONA pilot case demonstrates efforts to preserve and repurpose industrial heritage. The site is being transformed into a functional centre that will serve both Ravne na Koroškem and potentially the wider community. This project represents a key part of the region's strategy to integrate sustainability with the preservation of its rich industrial past. Traditional Blacksmith Workshop, located in one of the revitalised buildings of the Old Ironworks offered a unique glimpse into local craftsmanship. Here, a young local artisan has revived traditional techniques, creating high-value, handcrafted products. This workshop highlights how traditional skills can be integrated into the modern economy, providing business opportunities while preserving cultural heritage. The last site visit during that day was the open-air gallery of Forma Viva Ravne which serves as a stunning example of how art can merge with industrial heritage. Situated amidst the natural and industrial landscape of Ravne na Koroškem, the gallery blends sculptures with the region’s historical setting.

The following day, the partnership consortium and event organisers participated in additional thematic site visits titled Investing in the Revitalisation of Degraded Area. The focus shifted to the revitalisation of degraded areas, with a special emphasis on post-flood reconstruction in the Mežica Valley. Participants visited the towns of Črna na Koroškem and Mežica, where they had the opportunity to engage in conversations with Mayors Romana Lesjak (Črna na Koroškem) and Mark Maze (Mežica). The visit also included a unique tour of the Mežica Mine, offering insights into the region's history and ongoing efforts to revitalise the area after the floods. Post-flood reconstruction in the Mežica Valley, the site visits provided a detailed look at the reconstruction efforts in the Mežica Valley, focusing on the long-term recovery and sustainable development of the area. The visit highlighted how communities are working together to rebuild while integrating green and sustainable practices. Project partners were also treated to a tour of the Mežica Podzemlje Pece, a mine that offers a unique glimpse into the industrial history of the region. The tour by train through the underground tunnels allowed visitors to experience firsthand the significant role mining played in the area’s development. The final extended site visit explored the role of the revitalisation of cultural and natural heritage sites in the rural hinterland of Ravne na Koroškem by visiting the birthplace of writer Prežihov Voranc, Rimski vrelec resort and Ivarčko Lake.