L'Aquila, Italy's 2026 Capital of Culture, launches 'Cantieri dell'Immaginario' program

The city of L'Aquila, designated Italy's Capital of Culture for 2026, opened its cultural season on 4 July with the launch of the 'Cantieri dell'Immaginario' festival. The month‑long program runs until 6 August and includes 42 events featuring dance, music, theatre and visual arts across the historic centre and surrounding towns.

High‑profile artists will appear, including ballet star Roberto Bolle and composer Nicola Piovani, who will conduct the "Missa pro Pace" on 18 July. Other participants are Giovanni Allevi, Gaetano Curreri, Mr Rain, Giorgio Panariello, Enrico Montesano and Rkomi. The festival also emphasizes inclusion, with a concert fully accessible to deaf audiences through Italian Sign Language interpreters.

Mayor Pierluigi Biondi praised the initiative, saying the cultural capital status “means telling the nation and the world a story of renewal and future.” Organisers highlighted the event’s role in promoting community engagement and showcasing L'Aquila as a vibrant hub for contemporary Italian and international culture.