This annual publication includes descriptions, jury citations and contact details on the winners of the European Heritage Awards / Europa Nostra Awards. In 2021, Europe’s highest honour in the field of cultural heritagehas been awarded to 24 laureates from 18 countries across Europe for their outstanding accomplishments and dedicated service to heritage in areas ranging from conservation and research to education, training and awareness-raising.
The awards laureates offer several inspiring examples of how cultural heritage has an important role to play in contributing to sustainability and climate action. For example, sustainable, state-of-the-art solutions have been incorporated into many of the built heritage conservation projects, while a collaborative project from Denmark and Greece has uncovered new information about textile fibres which will help us in addressing the pollution caused by the modern garment industry.
At a time when misinformation threatens our core values and democracy, inciting dangerous division and mistrust, a thoughtprovoking exhibition in Italy dismantles a historic case of fake news with the aim of enhancing critical thinking. A project from Bulgaria shows us how the intangible heritage of folklore and dance can foster tolerance and dialogue between communities by highlighting our shared and most beloved traditions.
The 2021 European Heritage Awards laureates’ know-how and dedication give inspiration and encouragement, while the amazing beauty and relevance of our shared heritage offer a sense of belonging and comfort in such trying times.