The Estonian city of Narva has historically relied on strong ties with neighbouring Russia, but since the invasion of Ukraine the Russians have snubbed it, dealing a severe blow to the city’s economy. Targeting Western visitors is now a priority to revive the tourism sector. A key asset in this strategy is the Kreenholm Manufactory Company. Founded by an ancestor of European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and once a beacon of Estonian industry, it succumbed to globalisation in 2008. Art installations and virtual tours, supported by the EU’s TExTOUR project, are part of a major effort to breathe new life into the abandoned factory, which now hosts film productions and opera festivals.
The TExTOUR project will run until 2024.
