Heraclea Syntica project wins New European Bauhaus Prize

The Petrich Municipality project for the ancient city of Heraclea Syntica and its accompanying thematic park has been recognized with a New European Bauhaus (NEB) Prize for 2026. Out of more than 800 entries from small municipalities across Europe, the project was selected as one of the 20 distinguished plans during a ceremony in Brussels.

The award recognizes the efforts of the Petrich Municipality and the Historical Museum in Petrich to preserve, develop, and promote the region's cultural heritage. The project, implemented under the 2014–2020 'Regions in Growth' Operational Program, integrates the preservation of archaeological structures with the protection of the natural landscape.

Located in the Rupite area, the thematic park combines ancient heritage with modern design to create a living cultural environment. The initiative aims to maintain the authenticity of the archaeological site while making it accessible to diverse audiences through a combination of landscape integration and cultural programming.