As part of the ongoing activities within the BauNow and NONA projects, a study visit was organized in the City of Cazin from 25th to 27th February 2025, bringing together project partners and local stakeholders. The three-day event focused on exchanging knowledge and fostering cooperation in sustainable development, renewable energy, and cultural heritage.
On the first day, participants explored the urban and strategic development landscape of the City of Cazin through a guided tour. The visit aimed to familiarize attendees with the city’s characteristics, current development strategies, and future goals.
The second day focused on infrastructure and renewable energy initiatives. The delegation visited the “Ratkovac” business zone, where discussions were held on fostering synergy between local development efforts and the goals of the BauNow and NONA projects.
This was followed by a meeting at the PU Vodovod Cazin, where one of the BauNow project’s pilot actions—construction of a solar power plant—is planned. Representatives of the utility company emphasized the importance of this action for building capacities in renewable energy and reducing the electricity burden on the local water supply system.
Later in the day, the group visited the National Monument “Old Town Ostrožac,” a unique historical site featuring architectural layers from the medieval, Ottoman, and Austro-Hungarian periods. Special attention was given to the upcoming reconstruction of the Lothar von Berks Castle, which the City of Cazin plans to begin in 2025. Once restored, the castle—devastated by war and time—will be integrated into the national tourist offer as the only Austro-Hungarian castle in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
On the third day, discussions were held at the City’s Department for Development regarding the pilot action for the NONA project. Several proposals were reviewed, and the participants concluded that the revitalization of a neglected section of the “Zlatnih Ljiljana” square would be the most impactful action. Project partners expressed their willingness to support the City in defining and implementing this pilot intervention.
The event successfully reinforced cooperation between project partners and local authorities, highlighting their shared commitment to sustainable development, cultural preservation, and urban revitalization. It fostered strong partnerships, encouraged knowledge exchange, and laid the groundwork for innovative actions that will benefit both the City of Cazin and the wider region.
