PalaeoDiversiStyria

The paleo-landscape of Styria and their biodiversity from prehistory to the discovery of the New World

The project PalaeoDiversiStyria connects new knowledge from archaeology, archaeobotany and botany with current challenges in agriculture, monument protection and tourism. The partnership, established and managed by the Universalmuseum Joanneum, connects cross-border institutions with the necessary knowledge in these disciplines.

Project partners:

• Universalmuseum Joanneum (Lead Partner)
• Zavod za varstvo kulturne dediščine Slovenije (Institute for the Protection of Cultural Heritage of Slovenia)
• Karl-Franzens-University of Graz, Institute of Plant Sciences
• University of Maribor, Faculty of Agriculture and Biosciences
• Municipality of Großklein
• Municipality of Hoče-Slivnica

Besides the identification of original plant species in archaeological contexts and their revitalisation, the project includes the development of new products for tourism, which are characterized by the trends in alternative nutritional habits. The reintroduction of old crops leads to a greater biodiversity and allows local producers to offer new and attractive products that relate to the local archaeological heritage. By making these products an unmistakable touristic brand, they contribute to sensitization for the archaeological heritage of the region. As part of the project the cooperation of scientists with local companies and tourism providers is particularly encouraged. By this we intend to strengthen understanding of the common goals in the protection of cultural heritage and the agricultural tradition of the Styrian-Slovenian border region.

„PalaeoDiversiStyria“ was prepared by the Universalmuseum Joanneum in collaboration with partners from Austria and Slovenia and submitted to the open call of the Cooperation Programme Interreg V-A Slovenia-Austria 2014-20, funded by the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF). The approved total budget is around € 1.320.000, of which 85% are ERDF funds. The project started in October 2016 and has a term of 3 years.

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