At the auspices of the UNESCO Chair on Digital Cultural Heritage at the Cyprus University of Technology on the 28th of August 2024 the results of the TExTOUR project pilot for Fikardou Village were presented to members of the Fikardou community, the Village council and key government stakeholders. During the event the actions developed though the TExTOUR project in cooperation with the council and residents of Fikardou were presented and discussed. This included:
- How the Fikardou experience can be replicated to other communities within the region
- The process and exploitation of digital documentation for monitoring and promotion of rural tourist destinations in Cyprus
- A comprehensive review and assessment of the eFikardou online digital platform
The workshop concluded with the Fikardou Council accepting ownership of the eFikardou platform developed through the TExTOUR project and confirmation of the on-going commitment to supporting the regeneration of the mountainous regions of Cyprus through cultural tourism by the Cyprus University of Technology’s Vice Rector for Academic Affairs.
In closing the President of the Fikardou’s Community Council Mr. Christos Tyrimos, said:
“As Fikardou enters its digital age, we are at the intersection of tradition and innovation. We are excited about the new opportunities this digitization project will bring – increased global awareness, improved visitor experiences and a boost to tourism. The digital representation of Fikardou is our tribute to its past, our gift to the present and our investment in the future.”