European youth bound by books: awarded project of the EHL Call for Projects’24 kicks off in Waldsassen and Königswart Castle
European youth bound by books
Held in Waldsassen and Königswart, the events aimed to improve heritage interpretation for younger audiences. A bilingual booklet—designed for 12–16-year-olds—was introduced, presenting the stories of the Waldsassen Abbey Library and the Königswart Castle collection, alongside profiles of two “great Europeans”: Bernard of Clairvaux and Prince Metternich.
Workshops for the guides included practical sessions on engaging youth, storytelling, using social media, and navigating common challenges in heritage education. Presentations also provided broader historical context on the Cisterscapes network, European security, and the European Heritage Label. For many guides, this marked the first chance to meet and exchange experiences across the border.
Hands-on History for students
Following the guide training, the project continued with cross-border student workshops on 22 May, 2 June, and 4–5 June. Eighth- and sixth-grade students from Germany and Czechia came together in both Waldsassen and Königswart to explore the heritage sites and reflect on European identity.
In Waldsassen, students used the bilingual booklet to familiarise themselves with the library before diving into topics such as the European Heritage Label and the life of Bernard of Clairvaux. Interactive sessions included guided tours of the basilica and cultural exchange activities between German and Czech classmates.
In Königswart, students toured the castle library and learned about Prince Metternich, then created their own personalised bookplates and joined a cross-cultural scavenger hunt in the castle park. Both sites used playful, age-appropriate methods to deepen engagement and make Europe’s shared cultural roots tangible.
What participants had to say?
The feedback from both educators and participants was overwhelmingly positive, with many expressing enthusiasm for continuing cross-border collaboration. In particular, the thematic link between Königswart and another Cisterscapes partner, Plasy—both connected to Prince Metternich—opens further opportunities for future projects.
