“It’s a great honour for us to host this fantastic event. We are totally committed to work actively in this network and that is why we choose to embrace hosting the summit.”

Catarina Vaz Pinto, Deputy Mayor for Culture, Municipality of Lisbon

Lisbon hosted 2019’s summit thanks to its strategic positioning as “an open capital: a central and cosmopolitan city, with an international calling”. The city is considered to be an architectural gem (with a reputation especially for tiling and tile-making), and is currently enjoying something of a renaissance among young European entrepreneurs and creatives who are coming to the city to take advantage of its affordability and ancient charms.

The Summit was an unparalleled opportunity to share challenges and ideas and brought together the leading and most influential group of cultural officials in the world, all committed to championing culture in our cities as a powerful force to improve the lives of our citizens.

Over three days delegates from 38 world cities discussed the role of culture in building open and tolerant cities, how culture can support inclusion within cities and the challenges. Breakout sessions focused on innovations across neighbourhood infrastructure – from libraries to community centres.

Catarina Vaz Pinto, Deputy Mayor for Culture, Municipality of Lisbon said:

The summit was organised by the City of Lisbon and the World Cities Culture Forum. The Forum is made up of 40 world cities, who all recognise the impact and importance of culture and creativity and are committed to them being at the heart of public policy and city planning.

Images Courtesy © City of Lisbon Getty/Canva