The Serbian and the Romanian part of the Banat region have been inextricably linked by cultural relations since the earliest prehistoric times. Owing to its specific geographical position, distinctive features and the criss-crossing rivers Tisa, Tamiš and Karaš, the ways used for spreading influence by a number of different cultures identified in archaeological research, the area of Banat represents today inexhaustible source of information about cultural and historic ties.
Numerous ancient peoples passed through the area on their way towards Central and Western Europe leaving behind tangible evidence of their presence, but at the same time also some intangible impact, primarily reflected in the tradition and customs of the present population of the Banat region. Regardless of the fact that in the current moment in history, two states and several national/ethnic groups exist in this area, certain similarities, reflected in the expression of tradition, clearly evidenced through archaeological research, unmistakably indicate to constant interweaving of historical heritage.
These circumstances shaped – what has become a long-term desire of the experts from both the Serbian and Romanian part of Banat – a need to establish a close cooperation in all matters concerning research and protection of the cultural heritage. This need gave birth to the idea of establishing a regional centre, which will not only represent a central point for gathering of experts and education of new personnel, but also a hub of information, in terms of movable material, written resources and a digital database.
“The heritage should be passed on to future generations in its authentic state and in all its variety as an essential part of the memory of the human race.
Otherwise, part of man’s awareness of his own continuity will be destroyed
The European Charter adopted by Council of Europe in 1975