Culture & Castles

Culture & Castles develops cross-border heritage projects between Germany and the Netherlands in the framework of Interreg initiative.

The stately homes in the German-Dutch border region mirror the common history and cultural-historical attachment of both countries. Financing the preservation of these historical buildings is however scarcely
possible in long term for the predominately private owners. This has resulted in the cross-border country house organisation Culture and Castles in which the Dutch and Germans are committed to conserving the common cultural heritage. The aim of the organisation is to preserve cultural possessions such as country houses, castles, manor houses and listed historical buildings of particular note. New utilisation concepts have been developed and development potentials have been opened up.

Additionally, associated marketing channels have been established.

Culture & Castles concept and vision are based on the following pillars:

1.    Concentration of the interests of house owners in Germany and the Netherlands as well as, now, other EU countries

2.    Assistance and consultation in the development of cultural tourism usages

3.    Development of Public-Private Partnership forms

4.    Distinguishing between regions (especially border regions)

5.    Networking with other regions in Europe in the know-how transfer sector and in achieving marketing co-operations spreading across any number of countries

6.    Development of a European Foundation Castles Solutions