Brdárka

Basic info

Country:

https://obecbrdarka.webnode.sk/

Area:

Population:

Density:

Summary:

References:

https://obecbrdarka.webnode.sk/
https://alter-nativa.sk/3387/
https://www.brdarka.sk/
https://www.regiongemer.sk/objavuj/brdarka-ceresnovy-raj/
https://www.facebook.com/BrdarkaMagicPhotos/
https://www.facebook.com/search/top?q=alter%20nativa%20brd%C3%A1rka&locale=sk_SK
https://www.slovakia.com/sk/ceresnovy-sen-brdarka/

Keywords

Gallery

Issues Addressed

Despite its exceptional beauty, picturesque nature, and tourist attraction, the village faces several challenges. The area struggles with declining biodiversity, mainly due to the abandonment of traditional forms of farming that maintained ecological balance. Climate change, with extreme weather variations, increases the risk of erosion and deteriorates soil quality.

Brdárka is also known for its old orchards with fruit trees, the maintenance and gradual restoration of which is a very demanding and time-consuming process. In addition, the village suffers from a lack of employment opportunities, which is exacerbated by insufficient financial support for such a small community. This results in the gradual moving out of young generation and a decline in the local population. The vitality of the village is now supported by newly arrived residents, mostly permaculture activists. However, this human factor is not infinite.

Cultural heritage, including historical architecture and traditional crafts, faces decline due to a lack of resources for preservation and restoration.

Despite these challenges, Brdárka has the potential to become a model village for sustainable development, ecological farming, and cultural heritage protection if appropriate measures were introduced and support for local revitalisation was obtained.

Approaches and Solutions

Thanks to the influx of new residents from the NGO Alter Nativa, Brdárka has become a place that emphasises the preservation of the unique character of the village and its sustainable development. The local community focuses on the preservation and gradual restoration of traditional cherry orchards, which are a significant symbol of the village, supporting thereby ecological farming practices and the enhancement of biodiversity

The village is also working on a continuous restoration of historical architecture through a sensitive renovation of old local buildings. Priority projects include the maintenance of cultural monuments, including original mudbrick houses and the local church. These activities enhance Brdárka’s unique cultural identity and visual charm, which makes it attractive for visitors and tourists.

Supporting the local community life creates a good basis for further local development. Brdárka regularly organises traditional events such as fairs, fruit tastings, concerts, picnics, educational activities, and craft workshops. Joint volunteer actions, such as taking care of public spaces, orchards, and restoring original architecture using traditional techniques, unite local residents and attract visitors.

Infrastructure development projects, including eco-tourism and improving transport connectivity, are funded by a combination of local resources, grants, and support from regional institutions. Brdárka is an inspiration for other small villages that wish to effectively connect traditions, ecological care, and an alternative way of life.

Actors and Stakeholders

In Brdárka, the driving force behind development is the close-knit community of residents, primarily from the NGO Alter Nativa. They actively participate in the protection of the village’s natural and cultural heritage. The key to success is the strong connection between local residents, non-governmental organisations, and experts in ecological and historical projects.

Local leaders and volunteers play a key role in restoring fruit orchards, preserving traditional crafts, and organising cultural events that strengthen the community spirit. Brdárka is known for its connection to a network of ecological and permaculture initiatives, which bring new ideas, interest from ecological and craft communities, and financial resources.

Challenges and Opportunities

One of the biggest challenges in Brdárka is the lack of financial resources for large-scale restoration projects of historical buildings and the preservation of cultural heritage. Additionally, complicated ownership relations and the low population density place increased demands on planning and implementing projects.

On the other hand, the village has great potential for the development of eco-tourism and educational projects focused on traditional crafts and landscape management practices, as well as the newly introduced concept of permaculture. Thanks to its unique natural environment and active residents, Brdárka has the opportunity to become a model example of sustainable development for other Slovak villages of such a small size and limited resources.

Outcomes and Lessons Learnt

The local community has gained recognition for its efforts to preserve cultural values and sustainable farming practices. Brdárka has become a role model for small villages facing similar challenges, with its successes being the result of strong collaboration between residents, NGOs, and experts.

Although Brdárka is located in an area with low population density, it has managed to maintain a stable community and attract people looking for a peaceful and eco-oriented environment. The demand for land in the area is gradually increasing, which supports the revitalisation of the village and offers opportunities for further development. It shows alternative ways of life that bring entirely different types of non-commercial life benefits for its residents. Creating and preserving rural beauty, along with respect to cultural and natural heritage, is a priority in Brdárka. This approach represents a long-term concept for creating a unique settlement.

Selected major projects and awards

• “King of European Folk Crafts” Award – 2008
• “Model Nature Garden” Label – 2014
• “Horn of Plenty” Award – 2019
• “Heart in Hand” Award – 2020
• Permaculture course
• Permaculture design courses
• Craft courses, Concert – Music in the Cherry Paradise
• Reconstruction courses
• AN Reading Club