L’Aquila is the Italian Capital of Culture for 2026. It was proclaimed by the Minister of Culture, Gennaro Sangiuliano, at a ceremony held today in Rome, in the Ministry’s Sala Spadolini, in the presence of the jury chaired by Davide Maria Desario and composed of Virginia Lozito, Luisa Piacentini, Andrea Prencipe, Andrea Rebaglio, Daniela Tisi, and Isabella Valente, and representatives of all 10 finalist cities: Agnone (Isernia), Alba (Cuneo), Gaeta (Latina), L’Aquila, Latina, Lucera (Foggia), Maratea (Potenza), Rimini, Treviso, and Unione dei Comuni Valdichiana Senese (Siena). A decision that sparked joy and pride in the city and the entire region of Abruzzo and that comes at a crucial time, as the Abruzzo capital prepares to commemorate the 15th anniversary of the 2010 earthquake, an event that deeply scarred the community and left scars that are still visible today.
The words of the first citizen
“It is an honor rendered not only to our city but to the entire Abruzzo region, to the Apennine areas, to the center of Italy. – Mayor Pierluigi Biondi commented on the sidelines of the appointment – The issue of the inland areas represents, with the southern issue, the challenge of Italy’s tomorrow. L’Aquila is about to celebrate 15 years since the earthquake. An event that affected us as a community. This is not compensation but represents an element around which to rebuild the social fabric. Culture is a fundamental element of our reconstruction. We will be up to the task you entrust us with, long live Italy.”
Between art, history and resilience
The nomination is a recognition of the importance of culture as a catalyst for urban regeneration and social renewal. L’Aquila is renowned for its rich artistic, historical and cultural heritage, spanning centuries of history and tradition. Through innovative cultural initiatives and educational programs, the“city of 99 castles, 99 churches, 99 squares and 99 spouts” has worked to preserve and promote its unique cultural heritage while embracing new forms of artistic and creative expression.
L’Aquila, a historic city in Abruzzo, attracts visitors with its proud cultural tradition and monuments. Some of its timeless symbols are the Fountain of the 99 Spouts; the 13th-century Basilica of Santa Maria di Collemaggio, famous for its elegant pink-and-white façade; the Spanish Fort, an imposing 16th-century fortress that offers a breathtaking view of the Conca mountains; and the Cathedral, dedicated to Saints Maximus and George, overlooking the Piazza with its characteristic double bell towers. Plus the church of San Bernardino with its splendid Renaissance front and cloisters, the National Museum of Abruzzo, which preserves archaeological finds and works of art, evidence of a deep spirituality unchanged by time, and the lively theater tradition.
Recognition as the Italian Capital of Culture is more than just an honorary title; it is a tribute to the city’s tenacity and determination to rise from the rubble and rebuild its future. L’Aquila has demonstrated extraordinary resilience, with its residents working tirelessly to rebuild not only the buildings, but also the social and cultural fabric of the community.
The title will offer the Abruzzo capital an unprecedented opportunity to showcase its cultural heritage and catalyze attention from around the world. It is expected that 2026 will feature extraordinary cultural events, art exhibitions, theatrical performances, musical concerts, and more, celebrating the richness and diversity of L’Aquila’s culture.
In conclusion, L’Aquila is preparing to embark on a journey as the Italian Capital of Culture. At a time when the world faces unprecedented challenges, the city’s history is an encouragement to believe in the power of culture to inspire, heal and unite.
