The Interreg IPA CBC Programme Bulgaria-North Macedonia 2014-2020 has made a significant investment of 7,272,206 euros to enhancing the tourism potential of the region through cooperation initiatives in better preservation and sustainable utilization of natural and cultural heritage of the region. These financial resources have already facilitated the realization of numerous projects aimed at better preservation and sustainable use of the natural and cultural heritage of the area.
Among the 16 completed projects, several notable highlights include: Construction of a modern tourist information center in Staro Nagorichane, reconstruction of the medieval church "St. Archangel Michael" in Rila, rehabilitation of municipal buildings at the community centers in Sekirnik and Ribnovo, establishment of transport and pedestrian access to the natural landmark "Polska Skakavitsa Waterfall" in the Municipality of Kyustendil, installation of urban equipment for the touristic settlement in Mantovo, Municipality of Konche, creation of an info center in Pehchevo and square in v.Breznica, construction local roads towards Lipkovo Lake in Lipkovo and access roads to natural tourism sites in Satovcha, ensuring equipment for the Cultural Information Centre "Romansa" in Makedonska Kamenica and the repair of the Community Centre "Georgi Todorov-1885" in Belitsa, construction of a water supply system in the tourist settlement of Berovo Lake and facilities in St. Vrach Park in Sandanski.
Additionally, various restoration, conservation, and reconstruction efforts have been undertaken, such as the restoration of the Clock Tower and Turkish bath in Dojran, the Kadin Bridge in Nevestino, the medieval church "St. Vlasie" in Shtip. Furthermore, projects like the construction of an eco-path connecting the Church of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary with the Skakavitsa waterfall and footpaths around the monastery of Saint Leontius Vodocha, Strumica and the monastery "St. Joakim Osogovski" in Kriva Palanka, showcase the commitment to sustainable tourism practices.
These projects collectively contribute to the preservation and promotion of the region's cultural and natural heritage, making it an even more enticing destination for tourists and locals alike.