Ancona named Italy’s Capital of Culture 2028: the «Questo adesso» dossier and the Maritime Civilizat

Ancona named Italy’s Capital of Culture 2028: the «Questo adesso» dossier

The plan that secured Ancona the title of Italy’s Capital of Culture 2028 centers the sea as the city’s defining historical and cultural element. The dossier proposes a coordinated programme involving public institutions, cultural organisations and local stakeholders, with a focus on the Mole Vanvitelliana, the municipal museum system and the surrounding natural areas.

Key projects

• Museo della Civiltà del Mare Adriatico at the Mole Vanvitelliana: a major exhibition venue directed artistically by Dante Ferretti, designed to host large-scale shows and twentieth-century master retrospectives.
• Contemporary Talent Centre and the Visual and Sound Archive of the Sea (by Francesco De Melis): research and preservation facilities focused on maritime memories and creativity.
• Technology and innovation: partnership with the Università Politecnica delle Marche to introduce advanced technologies into exhibitions and museum activities.
• Design sea week – Luxury nautical district: initiatives to link local industry with the cultural programme and international promotion.
• Museo Omero: consolidation of its role as a symbol of accessibility and inclusive cultural services.
• Natural museum network along the “Via Maestra” (via Pizzecolli): integration of the Civic Art Gallery, the National Archaeological Museum of the Marche and other cultural sites.
• Urban green strategy: ‘City Park’ initiative involving Cardeto Park and Conero Park to enhance environmental quality and visitor experience.

Routes, trails and community engagement

The programme includes themed routes linking the historical centre, port areas and green spaces: cultural treks on topics such as Greek‑Roman and Byzantine Ancona, and participation in Council of Europe routes like 'Destination Napoleon' and 'Atrium'. It also plans to engage the local associative ecosystem, promoting established festivals such as Adriatico Mediterraneo and Popsophia, together with new digital and performance art initiatives.

Overall, the dossier outlines an integrated cultural strategy to strengthen museums’ role in civic life, increase accessibility and create sustainable ties between culture, business and territory.