Meet the Capitals of Culture & Dialogue 2027
CÓRDOBA, Spain
Located at the heart of Andalusia and historically positioned between the Atlantic and the Mediterranean world, Córdoba stands as a universal symbol of coexistence, intellectual flourishing, and cultural synthesis. As a former Roman capital and the illustrious capital of the Caliphate of Al-Andalus, the city embodies centuries of Mediterranean dialogue, creativity, and scientific advancement. Córdoba’s unique ability to harmonize diverse traditions, its exceptional cultural infrastructure, and its expansive Mediterranean vision make it an ideal 2027 Mediterranean Capital of Culture and Dialogue.
- Córdoba embodies a profound Mediterranean legacy, shaped by civilizations that made it a center of humanistic thought. From Roman Corduba, birthplace of Seneca, to the flourishing multicultural capital of al-Andalus, the city once rivaled Baghdad and Byzantium. Its four UNESCO World Heritage inscriptions—the Mosque–Cathedral, Historic Centre, Madinat al-Zahra, and the Patios Festival—highlight an exceptional wealth of tangible and intangible heritage.
- The city is a longstanding contributor to Euro-Mediterranean dialogue, with a history of cultural diplomacy, interfaith engagement, and international cooperation. Its extensive cultural infrastructure—museums, theatres, archives, and major festivals such as the Guitar Festival, Noche Blanca del Flamenco, Cosmopoética, and the Biennial of Photography—positions Córdoba as an inclusive and collaborative Mediterranean cultural hub.
- Córdoba’s 2027 programme reinforces its commitment to artistic plurality and shared heritage. Monumental sites—from the Mosque–Cathedral to patios, palaces, and archaeological landmarks—will serve as open stages for Mediterranean music, performance, visual arts, and civic dialogue. Joint exhibitions, digital immersion tools, cross-disciplinary residencies, and youth-centered initiatives will deepen cooperation with partner cities. Under the theme “Mediterraneity Extended,” Córdoba will develop mirror events and cross-border projects with Saida, affirming both cities as laboratories of intercultural dialogue.
SAIDA, Lebanon
A historic coastal crossroads with over 6,000 years of continuous inhabitation, Saida is one of the Mediterranean’s oldest and most resilient cities—a living archive of Phoenician, Roman, Arab, Crusader, and Ottoman heritage. Defined by its diversity, maritime identity, and rapidly growing creative sector, Saida reflects the spirit of Mediterranean renewal. Its strong commitment to culture as a force for social cohesion, youth empowerment, and intercultural dialogue makes it a compelling Mediterranean Capital of Culture and Dialogue for 2027.
- Saida is a true Mediterranean bridge city, shaped by centuries of exchange and coexistence. Its Phoenician maritime legacy, Crusader Sea Castle, Ottoman khans, historic souks, and active port form a unique tapestry of Mediterranean memory. Home to Lebanese, Palestinian, Syrian, Muslim, and Christian communities, Saida offers a vibrant mosaic of identities rooted in resilience and shared urban life.
- The city plays an active role in Euro-Mediterranean cooperation, advancing cultural diplomacy, sustainable development, and international partnerships. Collaborations with MedCities, UNESCO, and its twinning with Barcelona reinforce Saida’s position as a connector between Europe and the Arab world. Major events—Saida International Festival, Saida Marathon, Ramadan Nights, Christmas Village, and youth-led initiatives—illustrate a dynamic and inclusive cultural scene.
- Saida’s 2027 programme, “Threads of the Sea,” reimagines its future through memory, innovation, and dialogue. Heritage walks, storytelling festivals, youth biennales, interfaith dinners, digital storytelling labs, environmental art, and blue-economy forums will turn the city into a cultural laboratory. AR heritage tours, digital hubs, and community archives will broaden participation while highlighting shared Mediterranean narratives and strengthen cross-border cooperation.