Pesaro 2024: Italian Capital of Culture Program Unveiled

Pesaro officially launched its year as Italian Capital of Culture 2024 with a ceremony at the Vitrifrigo Arena on January 20, attended by President Sergio Mattarella, who emphasized culture as the foundation of freedom. The program features over 1,000 events across 50 municipalities under the theme 'The Nature of Culture,' exploring interactions between art, nature, and technology. Key highlights include the 'Biosfera' installation in Piazza del Popolo—a 4-meter LED sphere responding to audience gestures—and Marina Abramović's mixed-reality performance 'The Life' at Centro Arti Visive Pescheria. The Scavolini Auditorium, renovated from the former sports hall, will open on February 29 as the new home for music dedicated to Gioachino Rossini. From March to June, 'Reali Meraviglie' presents site-specific works by international artists on the Anthropocene. Studio Roosegarde's 'Spark' debuts in Italy at Parco Mirafiore (March 22–24). In September, Ryuichi Sakamoto's 'Kagami' with Tin Drum combines music, photography, and augmented reality. The 'Twin Color' project by Murcof and Simon Geilfus merges electronic music and technology. Twelve artist residencies will produce site-specific works in city neighborhoods, co-designed with residents. The Pesaro Capitale card grants access to museums and events. The program also includes the Rossini Opera Festival's costumes and sets exhibited in local venues.