Thanks to the Testing Action under the project, Razlog established a Digital Lab for Virtual Reality (VR) at the “Brothers Kanazirevi” School. Equipped with state-of-the-art technology, the lab became the creative hub for the first-ever VR reenactment of Razlog’s iconic festival “Starchevata.” More than 80 participants—guardians of local tradition dressed in authentic kukeri costumes and folk attire—brought the spirit and ritual energy of the festival to life. Their performance was captured entirely through the lenses of the students, who applied their newly acquired digital skills to film, edit, and produce the VR experience.
This hands-on involvement turned students from passive learners into active creators. By combining education with creativity and civic engagement, the project demonstrated how modern tools can nurture innovation while preserving cultural identity. For the young participants, this was not just an educational exercise—it was a meaningful contribution to promoting Razlog as a vibrant cultural and tourist destination.
The Testing Action under the URBACT framework was initially designed to transform a simple storeroom into a modern VR and live-streaming lab. However, its success quickly spread beyond the school walls, proving the transformative potential of targeted local investment. The creation of the Digital Lab and the VR reenactment of “Starchevata” have become a powerful model for integrating technology, education, and cultural heritage—showing that innovation can be deeply rooted in local identity.
As a natural continuation and upgrade of the MetaCity Testing Action’s success, Razlog’s History Museum has also been transformed into a VR Historical Museum. Building on the experience and know-how gained through the school’s Digital Lab, the museum now offers visitors the opportunity to step into the world of the kukeri tradition through immersive VR headsets. They can hear the powerful clang of the bells, feel the rhythm of the dances, and experience the unifying energy of the ritual firsthand.
Although developed beyond the project’s direct scope, this initiative vividly illustrates the long-term impact and sustainability of MetaCity—showing how investing in youth-driven creativity can inspire institutions across Razlog to embrace digital innovation in new and meaningful ways.
Given these outstanding results, the Municipality of Razlog now plans to expand this model to other schools across the municipality. The initiative will be tailored to each school’s profile, age group, and educational focus, ensuring both relevance and sustainability. Encouragingly, the municipality has already allocated budget resources to continue and scale up the effort.
The “MetaCity” project stands as a powerful example of how European solidarity and investment can deliver tangible local impact. When youthful creativity meets cutting-edge technology—supported by visionary local leadership and European funding—the results exceed expectations, creating lasting value for education, culture, tourism, and the community’s future.