Local: Gjirokaster (Albania)

The geographical, natural and cultural contiguity of Gjirokaster and Mastorochoria as well as the potential for future collaboration between the regions are the major reasons for the examination of the particular territory from the perspective of benchmarking. The function of the non-profit organisation CHwB was benchmarked through the fieldwork in Gjirokaster. The reason MaNet paid particular attention to the newly established private organisation is related to its reliable and successful actions and to a similarity of objectives. The MaNet shares many of the ideas, goals and aims of CHwB, which concern the safeguarding of tangible and intangible heritage of stone craftsmanship, to raise awareness at a local and inter-local level, to increase cultural consciousness of local communities and to encourage collaboration and partnership with public sector and institutions for the safeguarding of the craftsmen’ cultural heritage.

Taking into consideration the above benchmarking analysis, we are able to draw conclusions and proceed to suggestions for the MaNet Strategic Plan. In a dynamic area with a profound but also damaged cultural and landscape heritage, the network becomes the datum line where all the decision-making proposals and actions are articulated. The perception of ‘network’ is multidimensional as it accumulates all the intangible and tangible assets of the cultural heritage and of the society as well as legislative, macroeconomic and microeconomic parameters. This holistic approach could lead to profound knowledge of the area and its values. Alongside to network, the ability to generate intersecting links of the strategic actions, based on innovation, creativity and invention, facilitates and secures the transversal approach of the Project. The most successful tactics for economic development and strengthening or enhancing the dynamism of the territory are those that develop recreational actions, support the traditional activities of production, the exploitation of natural resources, and recognize alternative ways of economic activation, such as tourism or the industrialization of local products. It is important to stress that the support of social fabric secures the success of any action. The planning and the organisation of seminars, meetings and cultural activities raise the awareness of the local communities and make them active holders of the Project’s actions.