Shabla Municipality hosted the Annual Conference of the INTERREG VI-A Romania–Bulgaria Program
On October 30, 2025, Shabla Municipality hosted the Annual Conference of the INTERREG VI-A Romania–Bulgaria Program. The event was attended by representatives of local authorities, educational institutions, and beneficiaries from Bulgaria and Romania, as well as representatives of the Program’s Managing Authority and the Regional Office for Cross-Border Cooperation in Calarasi.
The event took place at the “Durankulak–Hamangia” Archaeological Complex, which was established specifically under this Program through Project No. ROBG 407 “Restoration of unique common cultural heritage and promotion of joint tourism product “Hamangia – first civilisation of old Europe”. The event celebrated the achievements of the INTERREG VI-A Romania–Bulgaria Program, as well as the 35th anniversary of the INTERREG Programs, highlighting the profound and lasting impact of cross-border cooperation between Romania and Bulgaria.
The conference, held in the form of an interactive and inspiring panel discussion, highlighted the most valuable aspects of cross-border cooperation. Participants, including the municipalities of Shabla and Balchik, Ovidius University of Constanta, Dimitar Tsenov Academy of Economics – Svishtov, Romania’s General Directorate for Emergency Situations, the European Institute for Culture and Tourism “Eureka,” and the Giurgiu County Council, shared their experiences working with the Program, as well as the successes they have achieved thanks to it.
The conference concluded with an unforgettable cultural and educational experience: a tour of the archaeological site led by Ilian Hristakiev, Chief Expert on Cultural and Historical Heritage for Shabla Municipality, during which participants discovered fascinating facts about the ancient Hamangia culture. They learned about the world’s oldest processed gold, Europe’s oldest stone architecture, and the largest studied prehistoric necropolis. This journey through time highlighted our shared roots and confirmed that, in addition to economic projects, INTERREG helps us rediscover and celebrate our common heritage.
