Heerlen is a medium-sized municipality in the south of the Netherlands with a rich history dating back to Roman times. The city is known for its mining heritage, modern urban renewal, and strong cultural identity. Following the closure of the coal mines in the 1960s and 1970s, Heerlen faced major socio-economic challenges, including unemployment, vacancy, and social inequality. At the same time, the city has gradually transformed itself into an innovative municipality with a strong focus on culture, heritage, sustainability, and quality of life.

 

Within the municipal organisation of Heerlen, there is a strong emphasis on collaboration with residents, social organisations, and European networks. Heritage plays an important role in this approach. Heerlen increasingly positions itself as a heritage city, highlighting archaeology, mining history, and intangible cultural heritage. During the Heritage Year 2025, for example, the connection between history, identity, and the future was a central theme.

 

This directly connects to the European project Bridging HERitage. Within this project, Heerlen collaborates with partners from several European countries to highlight the role of women in cultural heritage and history. The municipality of Heerlen acts as the coordinator of the project. Bridging HERitage contributes to a more inclusive perspective on heritage and encourages the active involvement of residents and local communities. In doing so, Heerlen underlines its ambition not only to preserve heritage, but also to use it as a tool for social connection and European cooperation.