Marvão classical music festival celebrates 12th anniversary

The classical music festival in the medieval village of Marvão, Alentejo, celebrated its 12th anniversary this July, attracting more than 10,000 attendees. Founded by German conductor Christoph Poppen and soprano Juliane Banse, the event utilizes unique local venues, including churches, an ancient Roman amphitheater, and a subterranean water reservoir.

A highlight of the festival included a performance at the 1st-century Roman ruins of Ammaia, featuring the premiere of a concerto by Chinese composer Alice Yeung. The event was attended by President António José Seguro and various foreign ambassadors.

To expand the festival beyond its current July schedule, which is limited by weather conditions, Poppen is considering the construction of a year-round auditorium for concerts, conferences, and visual arts. Architect Manuel Aires Mateus is reportedly involved in the preliminary design of the project, which aims to use local stone to match the town's historic walls.