Cristina Cappellini outlines Lombardy's cultural strategy in interview

In an interview with Artribune, Lombardy's Culture Assessor Cristina Cappellini detailed the region's cultural policies, emphasizing a balance between tradition and innovation. With a budget of €18 million annually, plus €4 million from EU funds for cultural attractors, the region supports heritage sites, museums, libraries, and live performances. Cappellini highlighted the 'Abbonamento Musei' project, which has expanded to Piedmont and Aosta Valley, with plans for Veneto and Liguria. She noted the region's role in reopening closed museums and theaters, such as Casa Museo Pogliaghi in Varese and Teatro Sociale in Sondrio. Lombardy is also working on UNESCO candidacies for the Via Francigena and Alpine food identity. The 'Anno della Cultura' begins May 29, 2017, implementing a new cultural law. Cappellini defended identity politics, stating that preserving local languages and traditions complements internationalism. She lamented limited media coverage compared to Milan's municipality but prioritized concrete actions over communication. The interview covered synergies with other Italian regions and abroad, including collaborations with Swiss cantons and Italian cultural institutes in Washington, New York, and Berlin. Upcoming projects include 'Schermi di classe' for cinema education, a new school-work program on UNESCO heritage, and a docufilm on Lombardy's archaeological sites. A gala for Cremona's violin-making heritage is scheduled for May 30 in Brussels.