Connecting Heritage, Connecting People: EHL Sites Gathered in Bamberg for the Regional Seminar

On 23 and 24 October, the EHL site Cisterscapes – Cistercian Landscapes Connecting Europe hosted a regional meeting of EHL sites from Germany, Austria, and the Czech Republic. Upon invitation by the National Coordinator for the EHL in Germany, the event brought together site coordinators and national representatives to strengthen collaboration and address shared challenges in promoting Europe’s cultural heritage. The objective of the meeting was to facilitate networking and cooperation among EHL sites and national coordinators, while exploring strategies to raise awareness and enhance the impact of the Label. 

The EHL is a flagship EU initiative that highlights sites of exceptional symbolic value for European history and identity. It focuses not only on preserving monuments but on fostering active engagement with European values — democracy, human rights, freedom, and the rule of law.

Eric Seng, National Coordinator for the EHL in Germany: “The EHL is more than a plaque on a building. It represents people working together across borders to bring Europe’s shared history to life. This meeting in Bamberg was an opportunity to exchange ideas, share best practices, and develop new ways to make the Label more visible. We are very grateful to the district of Bamberg as the transnational coordinator of Cisterscapes and the EHL Bureau for their support in planning and realizing the event.”

 Johann Kalb, Head of the District Authority Bamberg and Cisterscapes Coordinator: “As Head of the District Authority of the Bamberg District, it was a great pleasure for me to host the regional meeting. It was a fantastic opportunity to get to know the other EKS sites and, at the same time, to showcase the successful collaboration within our Cisterscapes network, with 17 partner sites in five countries, that has been underway since 2019. This cross-border exchange is key to bringing our shared cultural heritage to life.”

Discussions focused on raising visibility for the EHL and its unique mission, exploring funding opportunities for joint projects, shaping the future development of the Label and more. Participants also visited Cisterscapes – Cistercian Landscapes Connecting Europe, demonstrating how heritage networks can inspire cross-border cooperation.

Meena Lang, National Coordinator for the EHL in Austria: “This meeting showed that heritage is not static. It is a living dialogue that connects and strengthens communities. By working together, we can create projects that engage young people, foster cultural exchange, and make the EHL better known. Our goal is to ensure that these sites are not only preserved but actively contribute to education and dialogue about Europe’s future.” 

Tomáš Řepa, National Coordinator for the EHL in Czech Republic: “By working together, we ensure that these sites are not only preserved but actively contribute to education and cultural exchange across Europe. The EHL network is a powerful tool for building mutual understanding and solidarity. Meetings like this allow us to share experiences, learn from each other, and develop initiatives that bring European values closer to citizens in a tangible way.”

Since its launch in 2011, the EHL has recognized 67 sites in 22 countries, creating a living museum of Europe’s shared heritage. These sites tell stories of resilience, creativity, and solidarity—from the Peace of Westphalia to Hambach Castle and beyond. Images from the event are provided by the Bamberg District Authority. Updates are available on the EHL Bureau’s social media channels under #EuropeanHeritageLabel.