The capital Cordoba will host 24 to 27 In September, the World Congress of the Organization of Heritage Cities (OWHC), which will focus this year on “Liveability in Historic Centres”, and in which delegations from some 60 countries (about 200 people). The major event will take place at Congress Palace from Torrijos Street.
The mayor of the capital, José María Bellido, accompanied by the deputy mayor of the Historic Center, Lourdes Morales, provided some information about this important event that, for the second time (the first in Santiago de Compostela), is taking place in Spain, and in which “the following will be established roadmap for the management of heritage cities across the planet,” explained the mayor. Furthermore, this comes at a time when 40 years have passed since the declaration of the Mosque-Cathedral and 30 of the Historic Center as a World Heritage Site.
Thus, as Bellido points out, “the delegations will come from cities in France, Austria, Portugal, Slovakia and Greece; from Canada, the United States, Ecuador or Uruguay; also from Ethiopian cities and South Korea”, and will discuss proposals regarding three axes: the development of inclusive and cohesive cities inspired by their cultural identity; strengthening habitability in historic centres with measures that impact on the well-being of users, stimulating economic and social potential and adaptation to climate change; The third point of discussion will focus on good governance: establishing the necessary conditions for a permanent dialogue with the actors involved.
The mayor stressed the relevance of this congress, whose conclusions “will not only have a theoretical translation, but also a practical translation and concrete projects» which can be promoted in heritage cities.
In this sense, Bellido puffed out his chest to point out that “we are already working on an action that concerns governance: the Historic Center Management Planwhose conclusions will be presented before the World Congress.
“We are part of the Cordoba brand during these days, which will be a great opportunity to continue promoting the image of the capital,” added the mayor, who also indicated that they will take place Parallel meetings from September 24 to 27 open to citizens“Some related to all the heritages we share, such as flamenco or the Mediterranean diet, with the participation of experts; and other more recreational events, such as dances, concerts or street exhibitions.
In this regard, the delegate of the Historic Centre added that “just during the week of the congress, which coincides with the 30th anniversary of the declaration of the Casco as a World Heritage Site, we will also organize activities such as the launch of the Casco digital passportan application to follow a route through its streets, which can be stamped and will allow participants to win prizes.
Likewise, there will be an intercollegiate history competition, a revitalization in museums, a gymkhana in the jewish quarteran archaeology workshop or visits to the Royal Stables. Those who wish to participate must register on the page ch30aniversariounesco-cordoba.es
