As part of the Interreg VI-A Latvia–Lithuania Programme 2021–2027 project “HERITAGE HORIZONS” (No. LL-0230), the project partners — Kuldīga Municipality, Kuldīga Museum, and Šilutė Hugo Šojaus Museum — met in picturesque Kuldīga to take part in experience exchange activities and IT workshops dedicated to digital heritage solutions.

The day began with a visit to the Needle Factory — a 19th-century industrial heritage building that has now been renovated and operates as a center for creativity, innovation, and education. In the past, needles were produced here; later, the building housed the police, a post office, and a hospital. In 2022, the building was reborn as a modern space accommodating creative studios, laboratories, and a business incubator.

During the conference and IT workshops, with the active involvement of representatives from Kuldīga Municipality and the museum, participants learned more about the journey of Kuldīga’s Old Town toward inclusion on the UNESCO World Heritage List and discussed cultural heritage preservation as well as modern solutions. Particular attention was given to digital tools — the interactive game “Heritage Hacker,” digital content creation, and visitor engagement technologies.

In the practical session, “Švėkšna–Kuldīga Digital Routes” were developed. Working in groups, participants discussed the most important urban landmarks, natural sites, stories, and legends. They explored how augmented reality (AR), QR codes, audio guides, and artificial intelligence could help visitors experience heritage in a more engaging and dynamic way.

The visit concluded with a tour of the former Kuldīga Bank building. The authentic interiors and historic vaults demonstrated how old buildings can be successfully adapted to meet today’s cultural and community needs.

Participants returned from Kuldīga full of new ideas and inspiration to develop digital routes, strengthen international cooperation, and offer visitors innovative cultural experiences.