On Friday, 26 September 2025, a large crowd of visitors gathered in Europe Square, where two exceptional guides took them on a journey through the history, renovation, and current vibe of the space. Tomaž Konrad, Assistant Director of the European Grouping for Territorial Cooperation (EGTC GO), welcomed the participants and introduced the speakers, as well as the role of EGTC GO in the renovation of the square, which was made possible by the funding provided by the Ministry of Cohesion and Regional Development.
Dr. Kaja Širok, historian and head of the EPIC project, presented the strategic importance of the former Gorizia North Station to visitors, who were able to follow the explanation in Slovenian or in Italian translation via headphones. The station was officially opened in 1906 during the Austro-Hungarian Empire and played a crucial role in the area’s development. Matej Fornazarič, a member of the Slovenian-Italian group that designed the renovation plan for the square and its surroundings, highlighted the main guidelines for the renovation, which transformed the square into a modern and urban space for pedestrians and cyclists. With green areas, benches, and pleasant corners, it has become a place for socialising, culture, and relaxation, as well as an important link between the two cities and a stimulus for the revitalisation of a once-neglected area along the state border.
Dr. Kaja Širok then took the floor again to present the EPIC project with EPICenter, which is being built in the immediate vicinity of the market and where visitors can learn about the history of the cross-border area from different perspectives and through a rich narrative. The renovated Europe Square and its surroundings have thus created a new, lively space for the residents of Nova Gorica and Gorica, as well as all visitors. Participants in the guided tour organised by EGTC GO were able to see for themselves that projects of this kind are not just about building renovations, but also about stories of integration, cooperation, and a shared future.
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