Tarquinia and Etruskey Network of Municipalities Vie for Italian Capital of Culture 2028
Tarquinia and the Etruskey Network of Municipalities have launched their candidacy for the title of Italian Capital of Culture 2028. This announcement was made during the conference “Culture Takes Flight” at the Museo Nazionale Etrusco di Villa Giulia in Rome. The initiative is part of a strategic development begun in 2022, aiming to enhance the cultural heritage of the Etruscan civilization.
Strengthening Cultural Identity
The Etruskey Destination Management Organization (DMO) is at the forefront of this candidacy. Established over three years, Etruskey collaborates with public and private entities to promote sustainable cultural development and strengthen the regional identity.
Alongside Tarquinia, other municipalities involved in this candidacy include:
- Allumiere
- Barbarano Romano
- Blera
- Canale Monterano
- Cerveteri
- Civitavecchia
- Ladispoli
- Montalto di Castro
- Monte Romano
- Santa Marinella
- Tolfa
Key Figures and Supporters
The candidacy was presented by Tarquinia’s Mayor Francesco Sposetti and DMO President Letizia Casuccio. Esteemed figures supporting the initiative include Luana Toniolo, director of the Etruscan Museum, and Raffaele Latrofa, president of the Tyrrhenian Sea Port Authority.
Other prominent supporters include cultural coordinators and regional museum directors, showcasing a robust institutional backing for the project.
Cultural Vision and Strategic Plan
The dossier titled “Culture Takes Flight” articulates a vision for utilizing culture to develop the region. It emphasizes building collaborations and solid governance structures. The plan outlines four strategic directions aligned with UNESCO’s indicators for cultural sustainability:
- Sustainable Development
- Social Inclusion
- Urban Regeneration
- Cultural Heritage Education
The concept of “Capital of Diffused Culture” emphasizes engaging all municipalities, ensuring a unified cultural, social, and economic impact.
Upcoming Events and Initiatives
The 2028 cultural program will run from January to December, focusing on four thematic clusters:
- Scenes in Motion
- Threads of Knowledge
- Walking Horizons
- Narrative Traditions
Permanent structures such as information points and cultural hubs will be established. Noteworthy projects include:
- An exhibition on “The Sacred and the Etruscans”
- A tribute to poet Vincenzo Cardarelli
- A theatrical performance based on Caravaggio
- The gastronomic festival “Carciofo in Festa”
- “Poesia DAY” and “Catana DAY”
The program also features outdoor experiences, including a 154 km hiking trail and a 200 km coastal route for slow tourism.
Next Steps in the Selection Process
The submission of the dossier marks the beginning of the second phase of the selection process, which will culminate on December 18 with the announcement of finalist projects. In March, qualifying municipalities will publicly present their initiatives to a ministerial jury, leading to the final decision on the city awarded the title of Italian Capital of Culture 2028.
The dossier will also be promoted across all municipalities in the network to foster a sense of community and a shared cultural vision.
