Reviving Tourism in Narva, Estonia: How an Old Textile Factory is Attracting Tourists
In the northeastern city of Narva, Estonia, with a population of approximately 50,000 residents and a direct border with Russia, efforts are underway to boost tourism and attract visitors from the West. The recent inauguration of Stockholm Square in Narva marks a significant step towards reviving the city’s tourism sector and reconnecting it with Europe.
Indrek Reimand, the Director of Narva College at the University of Tartu, highlighted the importance of attracting new target audiences to Narva. While the city previously had strong ties with Russia, the focus now is on welcoming Estonian, Finnish, and other foreign tourists. The iconic Kreenholm Manufactory, founded in 1857 and supported by the TExTOUR European project, serves as a key tourist attraction in Narva.
Jaanus Mikk, Narvagate Manager, emphasized the transformative impact of initiatives like virtual tours and light installations at Kreenholm. These efforts aim to breathe new life into the historic fabric of the city and create a vibrant cultural hub. In addition to art installations, Narva hosts various events, including opera festivals, theater performances, and sports competitions, to draw visitors and rejuvenate the local community.
As Estonia celebrated Europe Day on May 9th, the proximity to Russia’s Victory Day commemorations serves as a reminder of the complex historical context in the region. Despite these challenges, representatives from the European Union have expressed their support for promoting Estonia as a travel destination. Ave Schank-Lukas, a representative of the European Commission in Tallinn, underscored the enduring presence of Europe in the region and the potential for increased EU tourism.
With picturesque lakes and sandy beaches complementing the cultural attractions in Narva, the region holds great potential for tourism development. Supported by European initiatives and local innovation, Narva aims to welcome a growing number of visitors and showcase its rich heritage to the world.