The Municipality of Caldas da Rainha received a ‘Very Good’ rating in the latest UNESCO Creative Cities Network (UCCN) assessment, as part of its integration into the UNESCO Creative Cities Network (UCCN) in 2019. This rating reflects the municipality’s ongoing commitment to creativity, culture and sustainable urban development.
The evaluation focused on actions carried out between 2020 and 2023. However, given the limitations imposed by the COVID-19 pandemic, which severely restricted cultural activity in 2020 and 2021, the attribution of the rating ‘Very Good’ is particularly significant.
The assessment obtained is a validation of the path that Caldas da Rainha has been following as a UNESCO Creative City in the field of Crafts and Folk Arts since 2019, and reinforces the municipality’s position as a culturally vibrant, inclusive territory committed to the sustainable future of its community.
“This recognition is a clear sign that the municipality’s cultural and creative strategy is having a real and transformative impact on the lives of people – both Caldas residents and visitors – based not only on tradition but also on innovation. In the future, we intend to strengthen international partnerships – especially with ceramic cities – to enrich local art, promote the territory and support exports, benefiting artists, studios and the creative industry,” emphasises Conceição Henriques, Councillor for Culture at Caldas da Rainha City Council.
The Municipality of Caldas da Rainha also emphasises that the prestige of this assessment also translates into increased visibility for Caldas da Rainha at national and international level, enhancing its attractiveness as a creative, tourist and cultural investment destination.
This UNESCO distinction also serves as an incentive for the local ecosystem of artisans, institutions, associations and companies to continue working together to build a more dynamic, creative and inclusive city.
The Municipality of Caldas da Rainha acknowledges and thanks all partners, cultural agents, and citizens who have contributed to the realisation of this shared vision.
You can consult the report HERE.
