The Sustainable Fortresses project develops international cooperation networks
The Sustainable Fortresses project develops international cooperation networks
Representatives of the cities of Hamina and Kotka visited Vilnius EFFORTS-fortification network Baltic Route – Fortified Heritage in the Baltic Sea Region – meeting in Vilnius on 23 January 2026. The city of Hamina has been a member of the European fortification cooperation network since 2018. The meeting presented the cooperation network of Finnish fortifications and the fortification areas of Hamina and Kotka. Durable fortresses -project, which is co-financed by the European Union. The project is managed by the Kotka–Hamina regional development company Cursor Oy. Its primary purpose is to develop a plan for the development of the Hamina and Kyminlinna fortresses into responsible recreation and tourism destinations. The project duration is 1.1.2026-30.4.2027.
The Vilnius meeting discussed the activities of EFFORTS and the development of certified European cultural routes, such as the development of the Baltic Route and its inclusion in the European Fortress Route. Several fortresses and projects were presented at the meeting, such as Forte Cultura network and focusing on the legacy of World War I Fort Union Interreg Project as well as concrete examples of the activities and challenges of different fortresses. Fortresses from Poland, Denmark, Åland, Latvia, Lithuania, Estonia and Finland were represented.
EFFORTS The general assembly will be held in Belgium this year from June 8 to 10, with the themes of investments and master planning.
The next Baltic Route meeting will be held in Bomarsund, Åland Islands, 28–29 September 2026.
