Text presentation of the author/office in English
Cristina is an architect and graduate of the Faculty of Architecture and Urbanism in Timișoara, class of 2021. During her studies, she gained significant experience at Sapienza University in Rome through the Erasmus program, which strengthened her passion for urbanism and architecture. Her thesis, focused on the restoration of the Metallurgical Plant in Oțelu-Roșu, Caraș-Severin, played a significant role in shaping her passion for urbanism. After graduation, Cristina realized her desire to actively contribute to improving the quality of life in the local community. Therefore, she enrolled in the Master's program in Urbanism and Regional Planning in Timișoara, where she had the opportunity to deepen her knowledge in urban planning and extensively study the needs and dynamics of the local community.
Project description in English
connections between villages and communes dependent on the main town of Oțelu Roșu. In this context, three significant poles have been highlighted for revitalizing the region: the historical memory of the former Metallurgical Plant in Oțelu Roșu, the marble quarry in Rusca Montană, and the lake from Poiana Mărului. Currently, the only existing cycling connection between these localities is the Via Transilvanica trail, which passes through 10 out of 20 localities. The project aims to create six micro-cycling routes to stimulate tourism and capitalize on local resources in the Bistra Valley. The study's goal is to assess whether a cycling route can connect the localities and highlight the area's most important cultural and natural elements. This connectivity should manifest at the level of both localities and the landscape, as well as regionally. The project is based on connecting the localities to the Via Transilvanica trail, which serves as the main axis for the cycling initiative and the creation of new activities and necessary infrastructure for cycling tourism. Poiana Mărului, a major tourist attraction throughout the year, offers activities such as cycling, hiking, and frequent sports competitions in the area, which emphasize its relevance. Muntele Mic is a mountain resort that can be connected to Poiana Mărului, thus promoting the development of surrounding localities. The area already has cycling and hiking trails that can be integrated and expanded to support cycling tourism. Oțelu Roșu has a rich industrial history but faces economic decline. The project aims to revitalize this town through tourism and cycling infrastructure. The desired impact would bring significant economic benefits; thus, the project will stimulate local growth by attracting tourists and investors, creating new business opportunities and jobs. Regarding accessibility, developing a cycling path that connects the localities will facilitate mobility in the region. The project will enhance the community's sense of belonging and responsibility towards the region, and they will understand its historical evolution, thereby enhancing local identity. Thus, can a cycling route serve as the catalyst for revitalizing the Bistra Valley and strengthening social cohesion among local communities?
