The transHERITAGE initiative, funded by the Fund for Bilateral Relations, ran for 15 months, from October 2023 to December 2024. It laid the groundwork for the creation of two heritage communities in Torrão, Alcácer do Sal, Portugal, and in Fana, Bergen, Norway, through the organization of various local meetings with residents and four events that brought together both countries.
This bilateral initiative involved academic institutions, religious organizations, local government bodies, and cultural associations. A team of 18 people contributed in various ways to the success of the transHERITAGE project.
Throughout the months, the project took on a challenge: to understand the meaning of a network of buildings and a legacy of memories with a new perspective. Eleven religious buildings were explored between Torrão and Fana, including convents, churches, and chapels. Hundreds of people gathered around these spaces during the scheduled activities, starting with the first event in February. “Claustro Aberto” (Open Cloister) allowed the Convent of Nossa Senhora da Graça to exceptionally open its doors to residents for a guided visit to the site and for a memory-sharing circle where experiences and stories about the convent and other local religious sites were exchanged. Two moments of community gathering and sharing took place, enabling the construction of a collective narrative for the site.
Later, in March, another event titled “Listening to the Convent” was held. This co-creation workshop encouraged discussion and reflection on the religious heritage of Torrão and how it could be reused for the sustainable development of the territory.
“Kirken Din” (Your Church) took place in June in Fana, Norway, replicating the first two activities with participation from representatives of the diocese, the church, volunteers, and other local community members. These activities were enriched by parallel events that allowed for cultural immersion, including a pilgrimage through Norway’s green landscapes, spiritual rituals, and ecumenical celebrations.
These three activities led into the final event, “Projection,” in November. The overall results were presented, helping to shape the future of Torrão and Fana through religious heritage. The program included round tables, assemblies, and guided town walks by residents. The project culminated in the opening of an exhibition at the AQUI Space in Torrão, which reinterpreted the outcomes achieved.
Throughout the months, the transHERITAGE project demonstrated how religious heritage can shape two territories from sociocultural, economic, and environmental perspectives. It played a transformative role in (re)building collective memories and bringing together members of local communities to address everyday challenges.
The initiative helped to bridge perspectives and approaches from both countries and fostered a sense of belonging and pride in religious heritage and its surrounding territory.