Verona Appoints First Culture Councillor in Five Years

After five years without a dedicated culture councillor, Verona has appointed Francesca Briani to the role. Briani, a 58-year-old lawyer with a passion for art and civic engagement, also holds delegations for tourism, events, and equal opportunities. The previous administration under Flavio Tosi had retained the culture portfolio, making its absence a key electoral issue. Mayor Federico Sboarina, elected in July 2017, fulfilled his campaign promise to reinstate the position. Briani aims to strengthen the organizational structure of cultural institutions, support contemporary art through initiatives like ArtVerona and the GAM, and promote the city's UNESCO heritage. She also plans to enhance cultural tourism and leverage Verona's economic strengths, including its wine and agri-food sectors.