The British Council in Bulgaria funded the University of Architecture, Construction and Geodesy in Sofia to set up a multimedia laboratory and a website mainly for children , to raise their awareness of the built heritage in South East Europe. The Bulgarian Ministry of Education and Science expressed interest in including the resulting product ‘Treasure Quest’ in educational activities.  Discussions are underway to further incorporate ‘Treasure Quest’ in other countries’ curricula, including Bosnia and Herzegovina and Serbia and Montenegro.

A group of enthusiastic young architects, students and experts, led by Prof. Todor Krestev, created the multimedia product Treasure Quest containing a website and a CD-R. The product, aimed at children 6 to 14 years old, conveys the idea, that Southeast Europe is a true Treasure Land in which valuables have to be explored, preserved and promoted. It is in fact a game which aims at raising the awareness of children and their understanding of cultural heritage in general, and specifically of the unique heritage of South East Europe. It encourages a sense of regional identity, of shared responsibility and respect for the values of other nations, ethnic groups and religions. The product was developed in partnership with experts from all South East European countries and is indeed a truly regional resource. By addressing these issues, this project is in fact a practical application of the commitments of the Varna Declaration on intercultural education and collaboration at expert levels.

Project Manager

• Prof. Todor Krestev, President of the Association for Cultural Tourism and an Honorary President of the National Committee of ICOMOS – Bulgaria.

Partners:

• Association for Cultural Tourism
• Bulgarian National Committee of ICOMOS
• Ministry of Education and Science
• University of Architecture, Civil Engineering and Geodesy, Sofia