The Moroccan city of Tétouan declared Mediterranean Capital of Culture and Dialogue for 2026.

The city of Tétouan has been chosen, alongside Matera (Italy), as the Mediterranean Capital of Culture and Dialogue for 2026, a distinction that celebrates “the rich cultural heritage of the cities and their shared vision of the Mediterranean,” announced the Union for the Mediterranean (UfM) on Thursday.

This recognition, awarded by the UfM and the Anna Lindh Foundation, will allow the cities to host a series of cultural activities throughout the year, engaging local communities and fostering partnerships across the Mediterranean region, the UfM stated in a press release.

Both cities share a deep historical heritage and traditions, and this acknowledgment reflects their commitment to promoting dialogue and mutual understanding throughout the region, it was emphasized.

“This designation represents a tremendous opportunity for us to showcase our heritage, our artists, and our cultural initiatives, while strengthening ties with other cities and countries through enriching exchanges and collaborations,” said the mayor of Tétouan, Mustapha El Bakkouri, as quoted in the release.

“We are fully aware of the challenges and responsibilities that come with this title, which marks a significant turning point for our city. We are convinced it will serve as a valuable lever for promoting cultural diversity and enhancing artistic exchanges both nationally and internationally,” he added.

For his part, the Secretary-General of the UfM, Nasser Kamel, highlighted “the power of culture in a time of divisions and tragic conflicts and its potential to build bridges by promoting an essential dialogue.”

The designated capital on the northern shore of the Mediterranean and the capital located on the southern shore will be invited to collaborate, highlighting their shared Euro-Mediterranean identities and local specificities.

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 among its peoples.