Neri Marcorè narrates Mantua in 80 mini-podcasts for cultural tourism

Actor and host Neri Marcorè voices 80 mini-podcasts revealing secrets and curiosities about Mantua, the Lombard art city that was Italian Capital of Culture in 2016. The project, produced for the municipality by the Loquis platform, aims to open new itineraries among cycle paths, theaters, wineries, and basilicas. The 80 episodes, titled 'Mantova, sinfonia di racconti,' are available on the Loquis app and Spotify, with over half already released. Each episode lasts about three minutes and starts with a question designed to engage both visitors and locals in discovering or rediscovering the city of the Gonzaga family, from Palazzo Ducale to the new Parco di Palazzo Tè, along the rice road and lake routes. The podcasts use geolocation and augmented reality: when users open the Loquis app while walking around Mantua, the story of the nearest place plays automatically. Written by Rachele Masci with editorial consultancy by Giacomo Cecchin, the podcasts are available in Italian and English. Mayor Mattia Palazzi commented on social media that two million Italians listen to podcasts, 39% under 35, and that they are convenient, educational, and screen-free. He stated the podcasts are for tourists, locals, and new generations, as the city's duty is to find new ways to share its history. The project offers an easy and pleasant way to approach a city rich in literature, history, art, architecture, and gastronomy.