Before the international recognition of an initiative related to gastronomic heritage, public and institutional attention turned toward tourism and culture models built together with communities: Nicuşor Dan presented Via Transilvanica as a project that “brings together people, communities and regions,” based on volunteering and direct collaboration. At the same time, the Ministry of Culture announced new criteria for the European Capital of Culture 2034, focused on continuity and lasting effects, with an increased role for young people and civil society, as well as evaluations after the program’s implementation period.
Harghita County has been included in the international TOP 100 Stories 2026 selection, compiled by the Green Destinations organization, for a program that transforms gastronomic heritage, local products and community traditions into resources for sustainable tourism.
The story “Tasting Szekler Heritage: How Harghita County Turns Living Traditions into Responsible Tourism” was selected in the Culture and Heritage category. The initiative shows how gastronomy, traditional dress, crafts and local celebrations can be developed for tourism without losing their authenticity, while ensuring that the economic benefits reach producers, artisans and entrepreneurs.
Examples include the “Szekler Product” certification, launched in 2009 by the Harghita County Council and held in 2024 by 197 producers for approximately 1,500 products. The application also highlights the “Day of the Thousand Szekler Girls,” which in 2025 was attended by more than 5,000 people dressed in traditional costumes.
In 2027, Harghita will hold the title of European Region of Gastronomy. The TOP 100 recognition follows the Green Destinations Silver Award, received in September 2026, when the county achieved the highest score in the culture and traditions category.
ั้,Sources
Latest News
22:50
22:21
21:50
21:45
21:23
See more news