Sapienza University of Rome, one of the European partners of the TRANSITION project, participated in the 5th International Scientific Conference on “Revitalising Historical and Cultural Gems for Dynamic and Sustainable Tourism Growth”, organized by the University of Garmian in collaboration with the Department of Cultural Heritage of the University of Bologna, the Garmian Directorate of Antiquities and Heritage, and the Garmian Directorate of Tourism.
Held in Kalar, Kurdistan Region of Iraq, the conference brought together international experts, researchers, and institutions to explore innovative approaches to cultural heritage preservation and tourism development. Discussions addressed a wide range of themes including the role of cultural heritage in shaping identities, the integration of digital technologies, and the impact of conflict and climate on vulnerable heritage sites.
During the event, in a talk dedicated to the enhancement of Yezidi Cultural Heritage in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq, Sapienza University presented the potential of the TRANSITION project to create synergies with a network of initiatives and actions addressing the challenges of protecting minority heritage in fragile contexts, by fostering cooperation among universities, policymakers, and local communities.
Within the framework of the conference, TRANSITION was relevant to ongoing discussions around the preservation of vulnerable heritage and the role of higher education in supporting inclusive cultural policies. The initiative contributes to broader reflections on how education and research can support the safeguarding of cultural diversity and social cohesion, particularly in regions affected by conflict or political instability.
You can find here the brochure and the programme of the conference.