The European project SHRINEs, co-funded by the European Union’s Internal Security Fund, aims to protect places of worship through a multidisciplinary approach that integrates tradition, research, and technology. With a budget of €1.5 million and a consortium that includes religious communities (Catholic, Jewish, Islamic, and Protestant), academic institutions, law enforcement agencies, and private companies, the project is dedicated to identifying and mitigating risks and threats to these spaces, such as terrorist attacks, natural disasters, hate crimes, and structural risks.
The Hackathon Tech for SHRINEs, held in Assisi from November 25 to 27, was a cornerstone event of the project, providing a platform to develop and promote innovative technological solutions aimed at enhancing the security of places of worship while preserving their cultural and ethical values.
The initiative, co-organized by the Municipality of Assisi, served as a significant opportunity for dialogue and collaboration among experts and innovators in a city renowned for its historical and symbolic significance. The event gathered over 150 participants divided into 11 innovation teams, who presented their proposals to 10 high-level evaluators and a panel of more than 10 potential investors. It also engaged 8 religious groups, featured over 25 keynote speakers, offered 3 thematic workshops, and showcased more than 15 EU-funded projects.
The final day, held at the Congress Center of the Basilica of St. Francis, concluded with the announcement of the four winning teams, whose groundbreaking solutions are set to make a tangible impact on the security of places of worship.
With the success of this event, the SHRINEs project strengthens its role as a bridge between innovation and tradition, demonstrating how interfaith dialogue and technology can work together to protect and enhance spaces of profound cultural and spiritual significance.
A step forward towards a future where innovation and security collaborate to safeguard our shared heritage.
