Matera 2019 European Capital of Culture at Risk of Failure

Matera, Italy, was named European Capital of Culture for 2019 in October 2014, beating Siena, Perugia, Ravenna, Cagliari, and Lecce. However, three years later, the project is in jeopardy due to local political infighting, clientelism, and bureaucratic delays. The author argues that the credibility of the entire country is at stake, as Italy relies on creativity, culture, and landscape. The city's administration, along with the region and foundation, have stalled progress, wasting months. Some good ideas have emerged but lack funding. The author questions whether a small city of 60,000 inhabitants or a region of 500,000 should have the power to undermine a nation of 60 million. The national government under Prime Minister Paolo Gentiloni has intervened, appointing Salvo Nastasi as commissioner in July 2017 to oversee operations. With less than 15 months until 2019, the author hopes for a last-minute recovery similar to Expo Milano 2015 but laments the lost time and lack of national debate. The piece is by Massimiliano Tonelli.