Procida, an island near the coast of Naples has been voted Italy’s Capital of Culture for 2022. This is the first island to be awarded this title since its inception in 2014.
The island beat 10 finalist cities to earn the top spot.
Italian Minister of Cultural Heritage Dario Franceschini announced on January 18 that Procida had ousted Parma, which won the award for 2020 and 2021.
The island is known for its colourful buildings and sea views.
Procida’s theme was ‘Culture doesn’t isolate,’ according to Matador Network.
This declaration made quite the impression on the Capital of Culture Commission, which described it as a vision ‘capable of conveying a poetic message, a vision of culture that reaches out from the tiny reality of an island as a well-wish for all of us, for the country, in the months to come.’
Procida is home to a population of about 10,000 people and is famous for its colourful buildings and bountiful ocean views.
The island dates back to the 15th century and its mayor, Raimondo Ambrosio, said: ‘Procida can be considered a metaphor of many places, many administrations, many communities who have rediscovered the enthusiasm and pride for their territory.’
The island has inspired both ancient and modern artistry, according to Lonely Planet.
The Roman poet Virgil is known to have been inspired by the island and film directors have also sought it – Anthony Minghella’s movie The Talented Mr Ripley is set on Procida.
Picture: Wikimedia Commons
