Castelo Branco
About the Creative City:
At the heart of Castelo Branco, the impressive art of Castelo Branco Embroidery weaves a unique and distinctive cultural landscape that sets the city apart. This embroidery, celebrated not only for its beauty but also for its economic significance, has become an enduring symbol of the city, decorating sidewalks and buildings as a testament to its rich cultural heritage. Artisans, with a commitment to preserving this valued tradition, continue to produce specialized embroidery, contributing to its continued relevance within the creative world.
Castelo Branco has also engaged in international collaboration, forging partnerships with cities across Asia, Africa, the Americas, and Europe. These initiatives extend to foreign communities and contribute to a rich landscape of cross-border relations that amplify the city's cultural and creative influence. With an effort to reverse demographic decline, the municipality has prioritized enhancing the quality of life. This commitment has positioned Castelo Branco as one of the most attractive and liveable cities in the country, drawing in foreign residents and investments. Key strategies such as the Municipal Environmental Sustainability Plan and Castelo Branco 2030 have driven the city to international prominence as a hub of culture and creativity.
The significance of Castelo Branco鈥檚 crafts industry plays a central role in the city鈥檚 development. The introduction of the 鈥淓mbroidery and Hosting鈥 brand to better represent and protect local artisans has become a milestone in the city's growth. Further initiatives have been fostered at city level, including research, preservation, training, and promotion of the local crafts. Events of national significance such as the Castelo Branco Fashion and the Castelo Branco Embroidery in Fashion contest have contributed to the promotion of this specific tradition.
Added Value:
As a Creative City of Crafts and Folk Art, Castelo Branco is dedicated:
To preserve and transmit local, traditional techniques, offering training opportunities to sustain these crafts;
To engage in international cooperation and exchange with other Creative Cities of Crafts and Folk Art to foster shared creativity; and
To leverage the Network to ensure diversity, sustainability, social inclusion, and urban regeneration, ensuring that its cultural heritage continues to flourish.
