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Como Designated UNESCO Creative City for Silk and Textile Heritage

cultural-heritage · 2026-04-27

Como, an Italian city renowned for its silk processing, has been recognized as a UNESCO Creative City. This announcement was made by UNESCO Director-General Audrey Azoulay during the selection of 49 cities for the UNESCO Creative Cities Network (UCCN), which now comprises 295 cities across 90 nations. Como becomes the 13th city in Italy to receive this honor, joining the ranks of Bologna and Pesaro (Music) and Turin (Design). Stefano Bruno Galli, Lombardy's Regional Councillor, hailed Como as the "European capital of silk," showcasing its vibrant textile sector. Mayor Mario Landriscina acknowledged the collaboration among local organizations and stressed the importance of fostering a sustainable economy. Established in 2004, the UCCN advocates for cultural integration in urban development.

Key facts

  • Como has been designated a UNESCO Creative City for its textile and silk expertise.
  • The announcement was made by UNESCO Director-General Audrey Azoulay.
  • 49 cities worldwide were selected in this biennial cycle.
  • The UNESCO Creative Cities Network now includes 295 cities in 90 countries.
  • Como is the 13th Italian city to join the network.
  • Other Italian cities recognized this year include Modena for Media Arts.
  • Regional councillor Stefano Bruno Galli noted 19 UNESCO recognitions in Lombardy.
  • Mayor Mario Landriscina acknowledged the work of Fondazione Volta, Chamber of Commerce, and the Promotional Committee.

Entities

Institutions

  • UNESCO
  • UNESCO Creative Cities Network (UCCN)
  • Fondazione Volta
  • Camera di Commercio di Como
  • Comitato Promotore
  • Regione Lombardia

Locations

  • Como
  • Italy
  • Bologna
  • Pesaro
  • Fabriano
  • Carrara
  • Biella
  • Turin
  • Rome
  • Parma
  • Alba
  • Bergamo
  • Milan
  • Modena
  • Lombardy

Sources