YouSeed: EU Project Preserving the Tradition of Bihor Ćilim Weaving

The non-governmental organization Bihorski Ćilim, within the implementation of the EU YouSeed project, engaged weaving instructors and organized a multi-month training program aimed at transferring the skill of making Bihor kilims to new generations.

The training is part of the project titled “Valorization of Bihor Ćilim Making,” which is financed through a call under the YouSEED project, implemented by the Italian NGO COSV with partners: the Local Democracy Agency (LDA) and the Network for Rural Development of Montenegro (NRDM), with financial support from the European Union and co-financing by the Ministry of Public Administration.

The YouSeed project is focused on strengthening the capacities of civil society organizations and supporting initiatives that contribute to sustainable development and the preservation of cultural heritage. Through this activity, the NGO Bihorski Ćilim contributes to the preservation of traditional crafts, encourages youth interest in cultural heritage, and creates a basis for future employment and economic empowerment in the local community.

The training is successfully conducted at the premises of NGO Bihorski Ćilim in Petnjica and represents, as highlighted by the organization, a significant step in preserving the intangible cultural heritage of this region.

“The training has multiple significance, because, in addition to preserving the authentic skill of weaving Bihor ćilims, it contributes to raising awareness about the importance of cultural identity and passing tradition from generation to generation,” emphasize the NGO Bihorski Ćilim.

The training program includes both theoretical and practical components, through which participants have the opportunity to learn traditional weaving techniques, authentic motifs and symbolism of the Bihor ćilim, as well as the complete production process – from material preparation to final product finishing. Special emphasis is placed on direct work with experienced instructors, who pass on their knowledge and many years of experience to younger generations.

NGO Bihorski Ćilim will continue, through projects and programs with the support of European partners, to actively work on the valorization of cultural heritage and the development of the local community.