NGO “Terezín – město změny” is working on networking other NGO and volunteers to present the history of the town by unusual events in the fortress.
NGO “Terezín – město změny” was established by Ústí Region and Terezin Municipality to present older and longer history of fortress. Till that time only tragic history of the Jewish ghetto was presented by Terezin Memorial. The town was massively depopulated after the army left back in 1990s (some 75 % inhabitants left). The town was perceived as sad place without any life. In 10 years a network of other NGOs and volunteers was built around “Terezín – město změny” to present older history of the fortress and to show Terezin as living town. They are from Terezin as well as from other towns. Thanks to them and efforts of its members it is possible to manage various events like concerts (historical or modern music), sport events (“Spartan Race” around fortress or Dog Agility in Ridding Hall), historical events (international historical festival of 18th century) or other special events (Terezin Games or Pirate Wars in flooded moat). “Terezín – město změny”, established by Terezin Municipality and Ústí Region, support other NGO with free space in restored buildings, infrastructure, technical and administrative support and even fundraising (regional or cross-border projects etc.). Sometimes “Terezín – město změny” serve as the main organiser. Without efforts and enthusiasm of other NGOs and volunteer it would be not possible to manage and secure such great events. “Terezín – město změny” support them in return in ways, they would not be able to manage themselves.
Resources needed
About 100.000 Euro per year (depends on events per year)
Evidence of success
“Terezín – město změny” co-operates with more than 10 subjects (mostly NGOs). Some 10 - 20 events per year are prepared each year in cooperation with “Terezín – město změny”. Significant part of total attendance of Main Fortress is gained by such events. Events are supported, which otherwise or elsewhere could not take place. Terezin is slowly becoming known not only as sad place but also as living town, where interesting (sometimes “crazy”) events happens.
Potential for learning or transfer
The cooperation of NGOs and other institutions preserving or managing the historical monuments (not only fortifications) can be realised almost everywhere. The main advantage is that you can achieve excellent result with very low costs. Something you mostly could not with professionals. Personal relation to the monuments, history, culture and the place itself can be strengthenby engaging the locals and other volunteers.
The hamper can be lack of interest on the side of local NGO (especially in small places like Terezin) or lack of financial and political support on side of political government. Sometimes it is hard to explain, why such extraordinary event shall take place.
Generally, such international cooperation with NGO exist on many European fortresses especially by historical events – not only the Festival of Joseph II. In Terezin but also e.g. Palmanova (Palma alle Armi) or Groenlo (Slag om Grolle).
Tags: Creative industry, Creative tourism, Regional, Urban
