Saxony, with its eight distinct regions, is leading the charge in rural cultural enhancement through the "Aller.Land" initiative. This funding program, primarily focused on economically challenged rural areas, has Saxony represented with the Bautzener Land, Erzgebirge, Central Saxony, Göltzschtal town association, Porphyry Land National Geopark, the north of the Görlitz district, Oberlausitzer Bergland, and Stolpen, Hohnstein, Neustadt/Saxony, Sebnitz, Dürrröhrsdorf-Dittersbach. Nationwide, 93 areas participate in this cultural movement.
These regions can expect initial funding of 40,000 Euros in 2023 to develop cultural projects such as networks, festivals, and cultural offices. The second phase, slated for mid-2025, will extend until 2030 and ultimately involve 30 regions. Each region could receive funding up to 1.5 million Euros, with annual allocations of 250,000 Euros. The program boasts a 69.4 million Euro investment from the federal government, with a 5.9 million Euro co-financing contribution from selected regions.
Contributing territories include the Erzgebirge, renowned for its touristic Ore Mountains, and the Görlitz district, alongside Sebnitz. In Saxony's capital, Dresden, cultural projects may also receive funding under this program. The main objective: revitalizing tourism in rural areas through collaborative efforts between the Ministry of Culture and Tourism and participating regions.
While Saxony reaps the benefits, other locales could stand to gain as well. The program's focus on strengthening cultural networks and festivals can positively impact rural areas like the Ore Mountains, bolstering their rich cultural heritage. Ultimately, the "Aller.Land" program aims to foster a cultural renaissance in rural Germany, attracting tourists and uplifting local economies.
