Tetouan to be the Mediterranean Capital of Culture and Dialogue in 2026

Tetouan, together with Matera (Italy), has been chosen as Mediterranean Capital of Culture and Dialogue for 2026, a distinction that highlights ‘the rich cultural heritage of both cities and their common vision of the Mediterranean’, the Union for the Mediterranean (UfM) announced on Thursday.

The award, given by the Union for the Mediterranean and the Anna Lindh Foundation, will enable the cities to organise a series of cultural activities throughout the year that will engage local communities and foster new partnerships across the Mediterranean region, the UfM said in a statement.

Both cities share a deep historical legacy and traditions, and this recognition reflects their commitment to promoting dialogue and mutual understanding across the region, the statement said.

‘This designation represents for us a great opportunity to highlight our heritage, our artists and our cultural initiatives, while strengthening links with other cities and countries through enriching exchanges and collaborations,’ said the president of the province of Tetouan, Mustapha El Bakkouri, quoted in the statement.

‘We are fully aware of the challenges and responsibilities that accompany this title, which marks an important turning point for our city. We are convinced that it will be a valuable tool to promote cultural diversity and strengthen artistic exchanges both nationally and internationally,’ he added.

For his part, UfM Secretary General Nasser Kamel highlighted ‘the power of culture at a time of divisions and tragic conflicts and its potential to build bridges by promoting an indispensable dialogue’.

‘The city designated as the capital of the northern shore of the Mediterranean and the capital city of the southern shore will be invited to work closely together, highlighting both their common Euro-Mediterranean identities and their particular local characteristics.

The 43 Member States of the Union for the Mediterranean launched the initiative ‘Mediterranean Capitals of Culture and Dialogue’ during their 7th Regional Forum in November 2022, in order to further promote the diversity and shared identity of the Euro-Mediterranean region and contribute to a better mutual understanding of its peoples.