Trade Route

LL-00286

From Craftsmen to Markets: a Craft and Trade Adventure

Common territorial challenge (s) that will be tackled by the project

The cross-border region of Zemgale in Latvia and Žemaitija in Lithuania faces challenges in tourism development due to an aging population, limited infrastructure, and a seasonal tourist flow, with few attractions to draw visitors. Despite these obstacles, the region holds significant potential for sustainable tourism by leveraging its rich cultural and historical heritage.

Project objective

The project aims to expand opportunities for tourism and economic development by enhancing heritage sites, improving visitor experiences and promoting tourism on both sides of Latvia-Lithuania border. Partners will develop a new touristic “Trade Route” exploring the crafts and trades that historically connected towns across the border. Tourism sites across Žagarė, Joniškis, Bauska, and Jelgava will upgrade expositions to offer engaging adventures and improve tourism services. Tourists will gain unique opportunities to learn about crafts that were once integral to the daily lives of locals through entertaining and educational games. The project will also create an online map of the Trade Route, share historical stories and offer raft over the Lielupe River for a tangible link to the past.

Planned activities

New touristic “Trade Route” will be developed during project implementation period, exploring the crafts and trades that historically connected towns across the border. Tourism sites across Žagarė, Joniškis, Bauska, and Jelgava will upgrade their expositions to offer engaging adventures, and improve tourism services. Tourists will gain unique opportunities to learn about crafts that were once integral to the daily lives of Latvians and Lithuanians through entertaining and educational games. The project will also create an online map of the Trade Route, share historical stories, and offer raft over the Lielupe River for a tangible link to the past. Fairs and markets will serve as vibrant platforms for local artisans to showcase and sell their work. This cross-border approach is essential for creating a unified tourism experience that links the cultural heritage of both regions. Through its activities, the project will bridge the past and present, creating a dynamic cultural tourism experience that fosters economic development and strengthens community ties.

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