Arena di Verona: 'Italia loves UNESCO' celebrates Italy’s 61 UNESCO

Arena di Verona hosts celebration for Italy's 61 UNESCO sites

On 5 June 2026 the Arena di Verona will be the setting for a major evening dedicated to Italy's 61 UNESCO sites. The initiative aims to promote both tangible and intangible heritage through performances, institutional meetings and gastronomic moments.

What to expect

• Date and venue: 5 June 2026, Arena di Verona and nearby areas (Piazza Bra).
• Live broadcast: worldwide transmission on Rai 1.
• Host: Milly Carlucci.
• Artistic lineup: notable national and international performers, with operatic, symphonic and pop/rock arrangements for orchestra.
• Participation: more than 500 musicians, dancers and extras, featuring the Arena Orchestra and Chorus.

Side events and cultural impact

Piazza Bra will host a large communal dinner under the stars designed to engage residents and visitors. In parallel, presentations and panels will address conservation, sustainable tourism and strategies to support UNESCO sites, with international delegates and government representatives expected to attend.

Spotlight on Neapolitan song

A highlight of the evening will be the launch of the nomination for classical Neapolitan song as Intangible Cultural Heritage. The presentation will begin at the Teatro Filarmonico in Verona and culminate on the Arena stage with performances and testimonies illustrating its cultural significance.

Why attend

• An opportunity to enjoy a production that brings together music, history and culinary traditions.
• A chance to learn about policies for protecting and promoting UNESCO sites in Italy.
• International visibility for Italy's material and immaterial heritage.

Ticketing, broadcast times and access information will be announced through the organisers' and Rai's official channels. The event represents a key date for cultural tourism and the sustainable promotion of UNESCO sites in Italy.