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L'Aquila Opens Capital of Culture 2026 as Mattarella Warns of 'Predatory Strategies'

The president urged investment in culture to strengthen democracy and social cohesion.

Overview

  • At the inauguration in the Guardia di Finanza auditorium, President Sergio Mattarella called culture a primary instrument of dialogue and peace.
  • Mattarella said investing in culture means investing in democracy, and pressed for eliminating territorial imbalances to reinforce national cohesion.
  • The ceremony, broadcast live on Rai 3, featured Culture Minister Alessandro Giuli, Economy Minister Giancarlo Giorgetti, regional president Marco Marsilio, and Mayor Pierluigi Biondi.
  • The public program included the 'Sotto un Unico Cielo' drone show, a lantern and marionette parade to Piazza Duomo, and the lighting of the 'Faro 99' installation.
  • The day’s events also drew political attention after Mayor Biondi, questioned on antifascism, described his earlier remark as ironic but said he is not 'anti' anything.