SOCRAT Partners Gathered in Pula for the Final Partnership and Steering Committee Meetings
14/07/2026
SOCRAT Partners Gathered in Pula for the Final Partnership and Steering Committee Meetings
Following the successful opening of the international exhibition "Shared Grounds", partners of the SOCRAT project (Networking Crafts and Contemporary Art for Sustainable Tourism) met in Pula, Croatia, on 8–9 July 2026 for the project's Final Partnership Meeting and Final Steering Committee Meeting, hosted by the Region of Istria. The meetings marked the conclusion of three years of cross-border cooperation under the Interreg Italy–Croatia Programme 2021–2027, providing an opportunity to review project achievements and discuss the long-term sustainability of its results.
The Partnership Meeting brought together representatives of all project partners to present the final achievements of each work package and reflect on the successful implementation of project activities. Particular attention was given to the completion of the SOCRAT Strategy and the Memorandum of Understanding, which will support the capitalization and long-term use of the project's results beyond its lifetime. Partners also reviewed the outcomes of the thirteen Creative Living Labs, highlighting their role in developing innovative cultural-tourism products through collaboration between artists, cultural institutions, craftspeople and local communities.
Project partners discussed the progress of the remaining project activities, communication achievements and final administrative and financial tasks, ensuring a coordinated approach towards the successful closure of the project. The meeting also provided an opportunity to exchange experiences and identify future opportunities for cooperation based on the knowledge and networks established through SOCRAT.
As part of the programme, participants visited the exhibition "AB ANTIQUO – European Architectural Culture and Antiquities of the Eastern Adriatic" at the Museum-Gallery Sacred Hearts, gaining additional insight into the rich cultural heritage of Istria and its interpretation through museum practice.
The following day, the Final Steering Committee Meeting focused on reviewing the project's overall implementation, confirming the successful completion of planned activities and discussing the final steps before project closure. The meeting reinforced the partners' shared commitment to ensuring the long-term impact, transferability and sustainability of the SOCRAT results.
The programme concluded with a guided visit to the Roman Amphitheatre in Pula, offering participants the opportunity to experience one of Croatia's most significant cultural heritage sites while further strengthening the exchange of ideas and cooperation among project partners.
The meetings in Pula represented not only the formal conclusion of the SOCRAT project but also the beginning of a lasting legacy built on creativity, cultural heritage, cross-border collaboration and sustainable tourism development.
