Irsina launches bid to become Italian Capital of Culture 2029

The town of Irsina in Basilicata has officially opened its candidacy for the Italian Capital of Culture 2029. Mayor Giuseppe Candela announced the launch, emphasizing the town’s “extraordinary historic, artistic and monumental heritage” and its potential to drive local development and counter depopulation. Regional President Vito Bardi voiced strong support, noting that Irsina follows the successful model of Matera, which was European Capital of Culture in 2019, and that the bid “gives strength and momentum to the whole region.” The initiative aims to involve citizens, associations and institutions in a collaborative project that will create cultural, urban regeneration and innovation programmes, building on existing networks of historic towns and cultural associations in the area.