ABOUT US
The Project
The Route of the Bastioned Fortresses of the Raia is a joint initiative of the municipalities of Almeida, Marvão and Valença with the aim of enhancing, consolidating and boosting a sustainable cultural tourism product based on the military heritage of the Bastioned Fortresses of the Luso-Spanish Raia. The project aims to consolidate the Route of the Fortresses as a touristic, cultural and heritage product with high added value, through concerted actions that promote the qualification of the touristic offer, the diversification of experiences and integrated promotion with cultural programming.
The municipalities of Almeida, Marvão and Valença play a central role as promoters of the Route of the Bastioned Fortresses of the Raia (RFAR). These border territories share not only a common historical legacy, but also a strategic vision for the valorisation of their military, cultural and landscape heritage.
The network between Almeida, Marvão and Valença materialises in a joint commitment to:
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Protect and preserve military heritage;
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Boost sustainable tourism and cultural valorisation;
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Ensure social cohesion and the involvement of local communities;
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Promote the economic development of their territories.
This collective effort has been reflected in a partnership since 2017, marked by four joint applications - three submitted to Turismo de Portugal and another under the POCTEP (Portugal-Spain Cross-Border Cooperation Programme).
All of these actions are part of the broader strategy to nominate the Bastioned Fortresses of the Raia for UNESCO World Heritage status, reinforcing the ambition of the municipalities to assert themselves as holders of heritage of unique and exceptional historical value, which is fundamental to the delimitation of the border, considered to be the oldest and most stable in Europe.
Their dedication and strategic vision make them true ambassadors for the fortified heritage of the Raia, acting as essential pillars for the long-term sustainability and success of the Route of the Bastioned Fortresses of the Raia.
The Route of the Fortresses therefore invites local organisations to join the project, strengthening the network for promoting and enhancing the cultural and touristic heritage of the Luso-Spanish Raia. You can apply for entry as a member here. Organisations operating in the areas of accommodation, catering, tourism, local commerce or other activities relevant to regional development are eligible.
Mission, Vision and Guiding Principles
The Route of the Bastioned Fortresses of the Raia is committed to safeguarding, preserving and promoting the bastioned military heritage of the Luso-Spanish Raia.
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Its mission is to value this unique legacy, making it accessible and relevant to local communities, visitors and future generations.
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The project aims to be a unifying force in the preservation and promotion of bastioned fortresses, boosting sustainable development, heritage education, tourism and cultural enhancement of the RFAR territories, claiming to be a model of excellence in the management of European military heritage, promoting collaboration, innovation and recognition of the historical value of this common heritage.
Images: UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), The icons of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are used in accordance with United Nations guidelines for educational and awareness-raising purposes. They do not imply official endorsement by the UN.
RFAR Objectives
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Lasting Preservation: To preserve and protect the fortresses as living testimonies of history, guaranteeing their integrity and authenticity.
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Sustainable Development: Promoting responsible tourism, local economic growth and environmental preservation in the regions involved.
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Heritage Education: Involving schools and the local community to strengthen a collective historical and civic awareness.
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Collaboration and Inclusion: Stimulating partnerships between municipalities, professionals, researchers and civil society, with common and shared objectives.
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Innovation and Adaptability: Integrating innovative approaches and being prepared to respond to current and future challenges.
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Local Community Involvement: Ensuring that projects bring real and lasting benefits.
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Cultural Programming and Promotion: Valuing the Fortresses through events, exhibitions and cultural actions that celebrate the historical and artistic diversity of the Raia.
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Transparent Communication: Maintaining an open dialogue with all stakeholders, ensuring the clear sharing of information and objectives.
