01/04/2026

The ADRIJOROUTES project took part in the 2026 edition of the Croatian Port Days, a major event dedicated to the future of port systems, maritime connectivity and sustainable development, organised by the Zadar Port Authority (ZPA).

The event brought together port authorities, policymakers, experts and stakeholders, creating a dynamic platform for dialogue, exchange and collaboration on the challenges and opportunities facing the maritime sector. Among the core themes of the conference were sustainability, digitalisation, smart ports and the role of EU-funded initiatives in shaping innovation. 
Within this context, Ms Elena Montironi, project manager on behalf of the Central Adriatic Ports Authority, presented ADRIJOROUTES in the panel “Cooperation Without Borders – European Ports and EU Projects”, focused on cross-border cooperation, knowledge exchange and the strategic value of European projects for port development. 

Showcasing ADRIJOROUTES contribution

During the panel, ADRIJOROUTES was presented as a concrete example of how cross-border cooperation can enhance the sustainability and cultural value of Adriatic ports.

Funded by the Interreg Italy–Croatia Programme, ADRIJOROUTES promotes innovative and sustainable maritime cultural tourism by leveraging the shared heritage of Adriatic port cities. The project develops cross-border strategies, digital tools and thematic routes that connect ports and territories into a single, integrated destination. 

Ms Elena Montironi, together with project partners, highlighted how ADRIJOROUTES contributes to:
•    strengthening cooperation between Italian and Croatian ports 
•    promoting sustainable and inclusive tourism models 
•    enhancing cultural heritage through digital and physical experiences 
•    supporting the transition from mass coastal tourism to more resilient, year-round cultural tourism 

Cooperation without borders in practice

The participation in Croatian Port Days provided an important opportunity to position ADRIJOROUTES within a broader European dialogue on port innovation and cooperation.
By sharing its approach and results, the project demonstrated how EU-funded initiatives can act as drivers of:
•    cross-border governance and joint strategies 
•    knowledge transfer between ports and institutions 
•    integrated solutions linking tourism, culture and maritime sectors 
In line with the panel’s focus, ADRIJOROUTES exemplifies how cooperation “without borders” is not only a concept, but a practical pathway to build more sustainable, connected and competitive port ecosystems across Europe.

Looking ahead

Events such as Croatian Port Days confirm the importance of international platforms for exchanging experiences and fostering new synergies. For ADRIJOROUTES, participation in these contexts is essential to amplify its impact and contribute to shaping the future of Adriatic ports as cultural gateways and sustainable destinations.