Study Trip Call Closed: 18 Applications Received from Across the Danube Region

Closing of PLACECRAFT Study Trips Call

The call for hosting PLACECRAFT Study Trips has officially closed, attracting strong interest from across the Danube Region.

In total, 18 applications were submitted by organisations interested in hosting study visits focused on rural placemaking and sharing local initiatives that contribute to vibrant and resilient rural communities.

The applications came from seven countries:

Bulgaria – 1
Croatia – 1
Hungary – 7
Romania – 4
Serbia – 2
Slovenia – 2
Bosnia and Herzegovina – 1

The number and diversity of applications demonstrate the strong engagement of local actors and their willingness to share knowledge, experiences, and good practices related to place-based rural development.

In the last few weeks, members of the project partnership - including activity leaders and representatives of the steering committee – evaluated the submitted applications and selected the locations that will host the PLACECRAFT Study Trips. These visits will provide valuable opportunities for project partners and stakeholders to explore inspiring initiatives on site, exchange experiences with practitioners, and learn about innovative approaches to placemaking in rural areas.

At the same time, preparations for the first confirmed study trips are already underway.

The chosen applicants

The first study trip will take participants to the Danube Delta in Romania at the end of April, organised in cooperation with the Ruralscapes project. During the visit, participants will get to know the activities of Ivan Patzaichin – Mila 23 Association, a well-known initiative working on community-based development and sustainable tourism in the region. The organising team is already working with the hosts to prepare the programme and logistics, and the detailed schedule will be shared soon. 

The second study trip will focus on the Old Ironworks revitalisation project in Slovenia, hosted by the Institute Iskriva. The visit is currently expected to take place in September, with the exact dates to be discussed and confirmed in the coming weeks.

Further information about the selected study trip destinations and the upcoming programme will be shared soon.