Description
This project aims to stimulate economic development in the area through (cultural) tourism. Main goal of the project is to restore the unique cultural heritage object, former Kintai Evangelical Lutheran Church, and to adapt it to the community and public needs. After the project the church will be suited to meet the needs of local community and it will be possible to use it for cultural events, concerts and public meetings and events. In order to inform society about the cultural heritage, and to adapt it to the community needs, it is foreseen to organise trainings and seminars on the subject of importance of cultural heritage management and its adaptability to the needs of local community. The project raises awareness and increases knowledge of care of cultural heritage. The project strengthens bilateral relations: the Norwegian University College of Agriculture and Rural Development (Norway) is the project partner. It is involved in the development of a plan to adapt the restored church to community needs and to develop a vision of how cultural heritage can serve the people.
Summary of project results
Former Lutheran Evangelical Church in Kintai dates back to 1705. It has typical elements of architecture that were prevailing in eastern Prussia in the early 18th century. During the soviet times, the building was used as a warehouse, in 1987 it was restored and transformed into an exhibition and concert hall. After the restoration of independence, the church was given to the Catholic Parish and became not only religious but also cultural centre – concerts of Kintai summer festival and other events attracting not only locals but also visitors from all over the region are held here. The survival of the building and visitors’ safety were endangered by the roof in extremely bad condition, foundation and walls damaged by humidity. During the project implementation, the main restoration and repair works of the roof, foundation, socle, facade walls were carried out preserved the valuable building and better adapted to public needs.
Summary of bilateral results
Lecturers from the Norwegian University College for Agriculture and Rural Development organized a seminar for local community about the potential of heritage to bring economic and social benefits. That encouraged the locals to look at the existing resources in a new way.