More information
Description
Coastal Memory Fort addressed the critical decline of Paimogo Fort, a 17th-century coastal defence structure of profound historical significance. Years of neglect had left the fort structurally unsound, vulnerable to environmental hazards such as cliff erosion and flammable vegetation, and disconnected from the local community despite its potential as a cultural and economic asset. The project adopted a multidimensional strategy to revive the fort. Restoration efforts focused on stabilising the structure using innovative mortar recovery techniques while mitigating risks such as erosion and fire. Beyond physical repairs, the initiative prioritised reconnecting the fort with its community through extensive engagement, including 37 participatory sessions, exceeding initial targets. These efforts documented intangible heritage and created new employment opportunities, with two jobs already established. A standout achievement was the development of an Augmented Reality (AR) tool in partnership with Norway’s University of Oslo, enabling visitors to immerse themselves in the fort’s history. This technological innovation complemented broader cultural and economic revitalisation efforts, including dynamic programming and digital outreach that attracted thousands of online interactions. Collaboration with institutions such as Museum Nord further elevated the fort’s profile as a tourist destination and educational resource. The project’s success is evident in its outcomes: a fully restored fort serving as a community landmark, strengthened international partnerships with plans for future collaborations, and a sustainable model for heritage preservation that blends tradition with innovation. Local residents, tourists, and researchers alike now benefit from a revitalised space that honours the past while fostering economic and cultural growth. By tackling decay, disconnection, and stagnation, the project has secured the fort’s legacy for future generations.
Summary of project results
The project addressed a range of challenges concerning the Paimogo Fort, a 17th-century coastal defence structure that had fallen into disrepair. Structurally, the fort was in a state of neglect following an ineffective 2006 intervention, leaving it vulnerable to vandalism and decay. Its precarious cliffside location further compounded these issues, with instability and flammable vegetation posing significant risks to its preservation. The surrounding landscape, marred by derelict buildings, detracted from the site’s historical and aesthetic value.
Beyond physical deterioration, the fort’s cultural and social significance had waned despite its role as a local heritage icon tied to community identity and collective memory. The project sought to rekindle this connection by engaging residents through workshops, cultural programmes, and the documentation of intangible heritage. Economically, the fort’s potential as a tourist attraction was underutilised, prompting initiatives to revitalise its role through job creation and entrepreneurship.
The project focused on the rehabilitation and revitalisation of the Paimogo Fort, a historic coastal defence structure dating back to 1674, located on the cliffs of Paimogo beach in the Municipality of Lourinhã, Portugal. The fort, which had been abandoned and severely vandalised, faced multiple challenges, including structural instability, cliff erosion, flammable vegetation, and nearby derelict buildings. Beyond its physical deterioration, the fort held significant cultural and social value as a coastal heritage icon, deeply intertwined with local identity, collective memories, and historical events such as the landing of an English brigade during the French Invasions. To address these challenges, the project undertook a comprehensive range of activities. These included detailed surveys, studies, and plans to assess the fort''s condition and determine the most effective solutions for its rehabilitation. The physical restoration of the fort was a key output, ensuring its functional viability and reinstating its cultural and economic roles. Risk management measures were implemented to mitigate hazards such as cliff instability and fire risks. The project also involved the collection and preservation of intangible heritage linked to the fort, enriching its historical narrative. A notable innovation was the development of an Augmented Reality (AR) solution, created in collaboration with the University of Oslo, which allowed visitors to immersively experience historical scenarios and events associated with the fort. This AR prototype not only enhanced visitor engagement but also served as a tool for universal access to cultural heritage. The project also included dynamic cultural programming aimed at fostering community involvement and promoting the fort as a tourist attraction. Community engagement was a central pillar of the project, with 37 sessions held involving local residents and educational institutions, far exceeding initial expectations. These activities strengthened the bond between the fort and the community while also promoting local entrepreneurship and job creation. The project''s visibility was amplified through extensive communication efforts, positioning the Paimogo Fort as a focal point for regional tourism. Overall, the project achieved significant outcomes, including the complete assessment and rehabilitation of the fort, the creation of innovative tools like the AR solution, enhanced community ties, and the promotion of local economic growth. Its holistic approach ensured that the positive effects would endure beyond the funding period, making it a model for sustainable cultural heritage revitalisation.
The project achieved significant results across multiple dimensions, benefiting various stakeholders, particularly the local and regional communities, as well as broader audiences interested in cultural heritage. The Paimogo Fort was successfully rehabilitated, addressing structural issues. The project also tackled landscape challenges, including cliff instability and flammable vegetation, ensuring the site''s long-term preservation. The Fort''s functional viability was fully restored, enabling it to resume its cultural and economic roles.
A key outcome was the strengthening of ties with the local community. This was achieved through 37 engagement sessions with residents and educators, far exceeding initial expectations. The project also helped job creation, contributing to local economic dynamism. The development of an augmented reality (AR) solution, led by the University of Oslo, allows visitors to immersively experience historical scenarios linked to the Fort. This innovative approach not only improves visitor engagement but also serves as a tool for universal access to cultural heritage. The AR prototype was a result of thorough historical research and collaboration with Portuguese partners, adding value to the project''s educational and touristic appeal.
The project also focused on intangible heritage, documenting personal and collective memories associated with the Fort. This effort enriched the cultural narrative of the site and reinforced its significance as a symbol of local identity. Broad communication strategies, including social media campaigns, elevated the Fort''s profile as a tourist attraction.
The project''s outcomes are sustainable and likely to endure beyond the funding period. The Fort''s rehabilitation, combined with ongoing community involvement and international collaboration, ensures its continued relevance as a cultural and economic asset. The broader impacts include enhanced regional tourism, preserved heritage, and strengthened bilateral relations between Portugal and Norway, setting a precedent for future cultural initiatives.
Beneficiaries of the project include the local community of Lourinhã, who regained a vital part of their cultural identity; regional stakeholders, who benefit from increased tourism and economic activity; and international publics, who gain access to a historically significant site through innovative technologies. The project also served as a model of good practice, demonstrating the potential of cross-border collaboration in heritage preservation and community engagement.
Summary of bilateral results
The partnership with Norway was instrumental in the project''s success, with both institutions making significant contributions. The University of Oslo (UiO) played a key role in developing the augmented reality (AR) solution, drawing on its expertise to reconstruct historical events for an immersive visitor experience. UiO conducted in-depth historical research in collaboration with Portuguese partners and local communities, further enriching the project’s cultural and academic foundations. Meanwhile, Museum Nord (MN) provided an invaluable external perspective, facilitating spaces for learning, reflection, and evaluation. As an internationally recognised organisation in cultural heritage management and dynamic programming, MN played a crucial role in shaping the project''s strategic direction. The bilateral collaboration yielded substantial results. UiO’s historical and cultural research contributed valuable knowledge to all participants while strengthening its expertise in AR. Portuguese partners benefited from new methodologies, techniques, and processes. MN’s contributions included study visits, knowledge exchange, and reflection sessions, which had a significant impact on both sides. The "Models of Cultural Innovation for Coastal Heritage" workshop, organised by MN, fostered dialogue and knowledge transfer, attracting interest in EEA Grants project opportunities. A Digital Platform Webinar improved MN’s use of digital platforms while providing guidance for Portuguese partners on enhancing project visibility and sustainability. Additionally, MN’s website and social media presence helped amplify the project’s reach. Future bilateral collaboration is already planned. UiO is exploring follow-up scenarios to expand the AR initiative into a broader regional cultural and tourism project.