FORT – UNION – Polish-Lithuanian integration of the fortification network for the development of flagship tourist products (FORT-UNION, Operation of Strategic Importance)
Project number:
LTPL00354
Project status:
Ongoing
Call:
OSI
Priority:
2. Promoting physical, emotional and cultural wellbeing
Specific objective:
2.2 - Enhancing the role of culture and sustainable tourism in economic development, social inclusion and social innovation
Date:
From: 2025.06.01 Till: 2028.05.31
Project summary:
The FORT-UNION project aims to enhance the visibility of Lithuanian and Polish World War I fortresses and turn them into a unified cross-border tourism brand. By connecting Giżycko, Kaunas, Białystok, Varėna, and Osowiec Fortress, the project will create a joint network and strategy for managing, promoting, and preserving these heritage sites using sustainable and innovative methods, including digital tools such as 3D models, virtual tours, and a dedicated website.
Key activities include restoring and adapting four fortress sites (Barracks No. 1 and Fort No. 4 in Giżycko, the Varėna training ground, and the military depot in Białystok), organizing cultural and educational events like the Fort-Union Festival, and developing new tourism trails and digital heritage products. The initiative is expected to increase visitor numbers, create jobs, and strengthen the region’s cultural and economic vitality.
Seven partners—municipalities, museums, and national parks—will form the Fort-Union network, ensuring long-term cooperation and visibility for the Interreg Programme. Ultimately, FORT-UNION will serve as a model of sustainable, inclusive heritage management and a lasting example of Polish-Lithuanian partnership.
Lead Partner:
Municipality of Giżycko
Lead Partner region:
Ełcki subregion
Project Partner(s):
Kaunas City Municipal Administration; Public Institution Kaunas Fortress Park; Army Museum in Bialystok; Boyen Fortress in Giżycko; Administration of Varena district municipality
Total project budget:
5.089.545,20
ERDF:
4.071.636,14
Does the project contribute to the implementation of the EU BSRS?
Yes