On this day in 2014, the government of Kosova, in partnership with the EU and UNESCO, inaugurated the Revitalization of the Artanë/ Novobërdë fortress project. This project has been developed in line with, and as part of, the EU umbrella mission “Balanced Regional Development” which aims to boost economic growth and quality of life through strategic investment.

As a result of this investment, there has been a direct positive impact on the development of business and tourism infrastructure in the region. In the 15th century, Novo Brdo was known as the city of silver and gold and today, residents are encouraged by the revitalization of the castle, opening businesses to offer quality products and services. Further, this has enabled a more complete tourist package for Novo Brdo, a cultural heritage visit including: the castle, surrounding monuments such as the cathedral of Saint Nikola, the Osman Efendi Mosque, and the mausoleum of Mehmet the Great. Further, the project has also prepared a site management plan which will include an outdoor venue for organizing events such as concerts and music festivals, as well as retail outlets for local producers and crafts.

Previously, visitors stayed in the region for short periods, and the purpose of the EU intervention was for visitors to stay longer with more services offered. As a result, the number of visitors has tripled, according to local businesses and the economic sustainability in the region has taken a different shape. Revitalization of the fortress has given the possibility to develop this site as a cultural tourism attraction and boost jobs, and economic development in the whole area. From a cultural heritage perspective, the revitalization of the castle has also helped to improve archaeological explorations yielding key insights on the history of Kosova, while simultaneously generating opportunities to develop the future of tourism.