New project: Critical History Tours

The ‘Critical History Tours’ project is a dynamic, multi-partner initiative designed to create and promote successful critical history walking tours across European countries. This nontraditional program engages with tension tied to historical debates in modern societies, focusing on how these debates manifest in public spaces, particularly in contested urban areas.

The project aims to enhance public awareness and foster a critical understanding of Europe’s historical heritage by addressing neglected narratives. It will promote cross-sectoral and transnational collaboration among providers of critical history tours, researchers, and educators, leading to the improved competencies of staff working in the organizations participating in the project. By expanding opportunities for citizens to take part in tours and engage in conversations about local and global contested histories, the project ensures that typically overlooked groups find representation in the public education sphere, fostering greater interaction with the sector.

Furthermore, the project empowers local authorities, public institutions, cultural interest groups, and social entrepreneurs to adopt inclusive and diversity-sensitive practices. By consulting with affected communities, they can address historical challenges constructively. The initiative also introduces unique adult education opportunities through high-quality, flexible, and internationally recognized professional development courses for tour operators, educators, and guides. These efforts will support the professionalization of individuals providing critical history tours and contribute to reducing the skills gap by increasing the number of newly qualified tour guides. Through these comprehensive actions, the project will create a sustainable impact on how Europe’s historical heritage is understood, taught, and experienced.

The ‘Critical History Tours’ project lasts three years and aims to develop and implement local walking tours in three European locations, each chosen for its distinct historical and socio-economic context. Educational courses will be conducted in Ștei, Romania, focusing on the legacy of the Soviet-Romanian Communist regime; The Hague, Netherlands, addressing the complex history of colonialism and slavery; and Bordeaux, France, exploring the city’s role in the transatlantic slave trade and global networks of economic exploitation. These initiatives will bring significant benefits to the local communities, fostering a deeper understanding of their unique histories while addressing contemporary social and economic challenges.

The project is a collaborative effort led by key partners, including EuroClio – the European Association of History Educators, Uncomfortable Oxford, the ATRIUM Association (Architecture of Totalitarian Regimes in Europe’s Urban Memory), the Liberation Route Europe Foundation, the Balkan Museum Network, and the International Students of History Association. Together, these organizations will combine their expertise to promote critical engagement with history, providing educational opportunities that encourage reflection, dialogue, and a more inclusive approach to Europe’s shared heritage.

The impact of the ‘Critical History Tours’ project is envisioned to unfold over time. Initially, it will inspire dialogue and engagement among participants, encouraging new perspectives on contested histories. As the project progresses, its training methodologies and certification will build a legacy of professional excellence, benefiting both individuals and organizations. In the longer term, the networks formed through the project will support continued collaboration and knowledge exchange, enriching the way history is taught, shared, and understood across Europe. This initiative offers a thoughtful approach to understanding the past and its enduring significance for contemporary society.

Funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the European Education and Culture Executive Agency (EACEA). Neither the European Union nor EACEA can be held responsible for them.

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