Bergamo and Brescia Open Joint Year as Italian Capital of Culture

On January 20, 2023, Bergamo and Brescia officially launched their joint tenure as Capitale Italiana della Cultura, marking the first time two cities share the title since the initiative began in 2014. The opening ceremony took place simultaneously at Teatro Donizetti in Bergamo and Teatro Grande in Brescia, with President Sergio Mattarella, Minister of Culture Gennaro Sangiuliano, and the mayors of both cities in attendance. The two cities, united by the hardships of the COVID-19 pandemic in spring 2020, presented a joint candidacy that received unanimous parliamentary approval. The program includes 100 institutional projects and numerous activities developed through public-private partnerships involving foundations, businesses, universities, and citizens. The slogan "Città Illuminata" (Enlightened City) frames culture as a force for social and economic development. The inaugural weekend featured performances by Groupe F, concerts, and free museum entry. Key upcoming events include the Festival delle Luci in February. The year aims to create a lasting collaboration model, as stated by Bergamo mayor Giorgio Gori and Brescia mayor Emiliano Del Bono.