Évora 2027: Maria do Céu Ramos on the Vagar Program for European Capital of Culture

Évora, a Portuguese city in the Alentejo region, will be one of the European Capitals of Culture in 2027. The program, centered on the concept of 'Vagar'—a form of intellectual wandering, encounter, and dialogue—was conceived by Maria do Céu Ramos, President of the Associação Évora 2027. In an interview, she outlined the program's ambitions, which include exhibitions, performances, music, public art, and multidisciplinary projects in historic sites and everyday spaces, developed with local and international artists. The program emphasizes community participation, with projects co-created with residents, associations, schools, migrant communities, and organizations. Long-term investments include restoring cultural infrastructure, creating new spaces, and establishing the first Regional Orchestra of the Alentejo. Education is a priority, with school programs and partnerships with universities and professional institutes. Ramos hopes the legacy will be improved infrastructure, restored heritage, stronger cultural institutions, and a community with increased confidence, openness, and a collaborative attitude. The year 2027 is seen as a step in an ongoing process of cultural transformation.