The project entitled “Catholic Event Tourism in Szabolcs-Szatmár-Bereg County and Satu Mare County” (CET ROHU-00474) is implemented within the Romania–Hungary INTERREG VI-A Cooperation Programme under Priority 4.6: “Enhancing the role of culture and sustainable tourism in economic development, social inclusion and social innovation”.

This cultural and tourism- related project, supported by the European Union and running from 2025 to 2027, involves the renovation of the Saint Ladislaus Roman Catholic Church in Krasznabéltek and the Saint Eleonóra Roman Catholic Church in Tiszavasvári, as well as the transformation of a historic building in Nyíregyháza – formerly a Greek Catholic school and dormitory – into a Religious Tourism Center. The total project budget amounts to €2,758,648.53, €1,919,921.56 being covered by the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF).

The Roman Catholic Diocese of Satu Mare contributes €1,158,648.56, consisting of €639,921.59 ERDF funding, €143,904.15 from the Romanian Government, and €374,822.82 as own contribution. The funding supports the exterior renovation of the Saint Ladislaus Roman Catholic Church in Krasznabéltek, including the roof structure, the fence with the Stations of the Cross, and landscaping of the churchyard.

The Diocese of Debrecen–Nyíregyháza is responsible for the renovation of the more than one-hundred-year-old Exaltation of the Holy Cross – known as the Saint Eleonóra Roman Catholic Church in Tiszavasvári, one of the city’s most significant architectural landmarks. The aim of this renovation is not only to preserve the building, but also to strengthen religious tourism and cross-border community relations. The subproject implemented under the coordination of the Diocese of Debrecen-Nyíregyháza has a total value of 800,000 euros, of which 80% is financed by the European Regional Development Fund, 15% from national co-financing, and 5% from own contribution.

In addition to the two Roman Catholic partners, the Greek Catholic Diocese of Nyíregyháza is implementing a sub-project worth €800,000, of which 80% is financed by the European Regional Development Fund, 15% by national co-financing, and 5% from own contribution. The diocese will establish the Religious Tourism Center in Nyíregyháza by transforming the current building of the Saint Nicholas Greek Catholic High School and Dormitory. The center will also host diocesan exhibitions, cultural events, and provide access to archival research materials.

The joint initiative of the three dioceses focuses on the renovation of historic church buildings, the cultural promotion of sacred spaces, the development of a common tourism strategy, and the strengthening of community life in local towns. Beyond the material restoration, equal emphasis is placed on spiritual renewal, rooted in love and faith. This program not only revives buildings but also strengthens the spiritual life of communities. Each renovated church and community space proclaims the glory of God and nourishes the faith of its people. Through this collaboration, the three dioceses open new horizons for the future, inspired by their shared faith.