Oral History Research and Training in Sighișoara

11-19 July 2026

Within the RESTORY project, we organise the Oral History Research and Training in Sighișoara, Romania, and invite other Restory researchers from outside Romania to join the activity between 11 and 19 July!

Oral history research and training in Sighișoara aims to complement and expand the existing collection of oral history testimonies already recorded in the town. Building on previous documentation efforts, the research seeks to identify gaps in the historical record and capture additional personal narratives that reflect the diversity of experiences, memories, and perspectives within the local community.

The research involves conducting new interviews with residents, community members, and local knowledge holders, with particular attention to underrepresented voices, everyday life experiences, cultural practices, social transformations, and memories connected to the town’s heritage. These testimonies contribute to a richer and more comprehensive understanding of Sighișoara’s historical and cultural development.

The accompanying training provides participants with practical skills in oral history methodology, including ethical interviewing, informed consent procedures, recording techniques, transcription, archiving, and interpretation of oral testimonies. Participants gain hands-on experience in collecting and managing oral history materials while learning how to integrate personal narratives into heritage research and public engagement activities.

By expanding the existing oral history archive, the RESTORY project strengthens the preservation of local memory and creates new opportunities for community participation, heritage interpretation, and future research, ensuring that a broader range of voices and experiences are documented for future generations.

RESTORY – Recovering Past Stories for the Future: A Synergistic Approach to Textual and Oral Heritage of Small Communities HORIZON Research and Innovation Actions, Cluster 2 – Culture, Creativity, Inclusive Society, Pillar 2 of Horizon Europe, HORIZON-CL2-2023-HERITAGE-01-04, 101132781