June congress in Diest, Belgium, brought together stakeholders, experts, and partner organisations engaged in the preservation and sustainable development of fortified heritage across Europe. The programme focused on ongoing cooperation between sites, exchange of practices, and discussions related to the management and reuse of fortification structures.

A particularly significant moment of the congress was the recognition of FORTE CULTURA, which was proudly awarded the EFFORTS Award 2026. The distinction was presented by Anne-Wil Maris, Director of the Zuiderwaterlinie and Honorary President of EFFORTS, in acknowledgement of the network’s long-standing dedication to Europe’s fortified heritage.

The award celebrates not only FORTE CULTURA as an organisation, but also the collective commitment of its members, partners, and supporters who actively contribute to preserving and reinterpreting fortresses as places of culture, education, encounter, and peace.

As Dirk Röder emphasized in his acceptance speech:

“We accept this award with gratitude, joy, and responsibility. Let us continue working together so that strong walls may become open spaces for dialogue, participation, and European understanding.”

The programe in the Diest citadel focused on the current challenges related to the management and reuse of fortified heritage sites across Europe. Discussions centred on public–private cooperation, financing models for restoration projects, and governance structures that support long-term maintenance of large fortification complexes. A significant part of the programme addressed sustainable reuse, including the integration of fortresses into urban and regional development strategies, cultural tourism, and local economic activities. Several case studies from different European countries illustrated practical approaches to adaptive reuse and ongoing transformation projects.