The HIGHRES project addresses the need to preserve intangible cultural heritage (ICH) in rural areas while simultaneously tackling the digital divide that these communities often face. In many rural areas, cultural traditions and practices are at risk of being lost due to demographic changes and a lack of resources. At the same time, the digital skills gap limits their ability to use modern tools for cultural preservation and community development.
Through digital storytelling, HIGHRES proposes a creative and accessible way for communities to document and share their unique intangible cultural heritage. The project provides training and resources that enable local people to create engaging digital content that reflects their heritage, promoting both cultural preservation and economic growth through cultural tourism.
By empowering community members with digital skills and storytelling techniques, HIGHRES not only preserves heritage but also promotes social inclusion and intergenerational dialogue. The project fosters a participatory approach to cultural management, ensuring that heritage is both safeguarded and shared in innovative ways that reach wider audiences.
HIGHRES also contributes to broader European objectives of digital transformation and cultural sustainability, offering a replicable model for other rural communities across Europe to preserve their unique identities and promote sustainable development.