This conference at the Istituto Svizzero in Rome will focus on the exchange of ideas on the concept of the Capital of Culture and networking.
Capitals in transition. Stories and visions of Capitals of Culture
The concept of ‘Capitals of Culture’ was created to recognise and celebrate cultural diversity in cities around the world. In Europe, the initiative was launched in 1985 by Melina Mercouri, the Greek Minister of Culture at the time, and her French counterpart Jack Lang. Mercouri proposed designating a European city as the Capital of Culture each year in order to promote lasting cultural projects, strengthen European unity beyond the economic sphere and encourage artistic and cultural exchange.
In Italy, Cagliari, Lecce, Perugia, Ravenna and Siena were named the first ‘Capitals of Culture’ by the Ministry of Culture in 2015. The Swiss city of La Chaux-de-Fonds will be the first Swiss Capital of Culture in 2027.
The Istituto Svizzero is hosting a conference organised by the Cultural Observatory of the Canton of Ticino to explore the origins and relevance of this rather ephemeral designation, with a focus on the Italian and Swiss context.
The event will shed light on how urban spaces are transforming into centres of creativity and cultural innovation; in particular, how these cities use culture as a tool for urban development and social cohesion, with obvious tangible and intangible effects.
Key questions that will guide the discussion include: How have the different ‘Capitals of Culture’ interpreted and realised these objectives?
The event is free of charge. Registration is requested. Further information can be found here: Capitali in itinere, Istituto Svizzero
Programme
18:00 - Joëlle Comé, Direttrice Istituto Svizzero, Raffaella Castagnola Rossini, Direttrice della Divisione della cultura e degli studi universitari
Saluti istituzionali
18:10 - Francesca Saccone, Dirigente Servizio VI Eventi, mostre e manifestazioni, Ministero della cultura
L'esperienza italiana nella procedura di selezione di Capitale della cultura
18:30 - Alessandro Crociata, Director of the candidature
L'Aquila 2026: a modello di sviluppo a base culturale per le città medie nelle aree interne
18:50 - Tony Burgener e Myriam Neuhaus, Vice-presidente e Direttrice dell'Associazione Capitale culturale svizzera
La prima Capitale culturale nella Svizzera: La Chaux-de-Fonds 2027
19:10 - Discussione e domande
19:30 - Conclusione
Moderator: Roland Hochstrasser, Capo Ufficio dell'analisi e del patrimonio culturale digitale
