- Free State to support 34 more school memorial care ideas
From the state program "Pegasus - Schools Adopt Monuments", 34 projects are being funded this year. According to a statement from the Ministry of Culture, a total of 10,050 euros in prize money is available for the winners selected by an expert jury. Gymnasias, primary, secondary, special needs, and vocational schools will receive between 250 and 500 euros each to realize their ideas.
"Those who go on a quest to uncover the secrets behind castle ruins, archaeological sites, or gravestones learn a lot about our history," said Minister of Culture Christian Piwarz (CDU). "But it also means learning from history for the present and future."
From Silver Mine to Copper Giants
Children and young people are embarking on time travels to the Middle Ages, such as the medieval mining town of Bleiberg. They are exploring, among other things, an old silver mine and the 3.30-meter tall copper bell ringers on the Kroch-Hochhaus in Leipzig. They are also discovering Jewish life and persecution during the Nazi era, as well as a forgotten monument.
Incentive for Engagement with Cultural Heritage
The "Pegasus" program, initiated in 1995, aims to encourage engagement with cultural heritage. Schools "adopt" monuments in their vicinity for one to two years, exploring and maintaining them. The best ideas and projects are funded. So far, more than 230 schools have cared for over 280 monuments - from their own school buildings to monuments, villas, parks, castles, or cemeteries, to prominent graves.
The Free State of Thuringia is one of the regions participating in the "Pegasus" program, with several schools adopting local monuments for preservation and exploration. The Free State of Saxony also has participating schools, such as those exploring a medieval mining town and a forgotten monument.
