In 2026, Tetouan and Matera will be the two leading cities of the Mediterranean Capital of Culture and Dialogue, a title that celebrates the Mediterranean as a space of connection between peoples, histories, and cultures. While Matera embodies the Mediterranean of inland areas, rock-hewn civilizations, and urban resilience, Tetouan represents the Mediterranean of cross-border dialogue, the meeting point between North Africa and Europe, and a multicultural heritage spanning centuries.

Located in northern Morocco, Tetouan has long been a melting pot of civilizations, a crossroads where Andalusian, Islamic, Mediterranean, and Berber influences have interwoven to create a unique identity. The city carries the legacy of Al-Andalus and the Muslim diaspora that found refuge here after the Reconquista, shaping its culture and architecture. Its whitewashed streets, UNESCO-listed medina, traditional crafts, and thriving artistic scene make it a living laboratory of history and creativity.

Why Tetouan is a Mediterranean Capital of Culture and Dialogue

Tetouan perfectly embodies the spirit of this designation, thanks to three fundamental aspects:

• Historical and cultural heritage: The city has been shaped by various civilizations, from the Phoenicians and Romans to the Islamic and Andalusian influences. Its well-preserved historic center reflects a blend of architectural styles and traditions.
• Euro-Mediterranean dialogue: Tetouan has forged strong ties with Europe through international cooperation projects, fostering exchanges between artists, scholars, and cultural institutions.
• Exchange and contemporary creativity: The 2026 program will focus on artistic collaborations, intercultural exchanges, and digital technologies to enhance dialogue between the Mediterranean’s shores. The city will engage artists, intellectuals, and communities in a journey of shared storytelling and artistic co-creation.

A Strategic Collaboration with Matera

Sharing the title with Matera, the Northern Mediterranean Capital, will allow Tetouan to develop joint projects, including exhibitions, artist residencies, and traveling events, creating a cultural bridge between the North and South of the Mediterranean. The Municipal Council of Tetouan will work closely with Matera to organize exhibitions, artistic exchanges, and digital initiatives that strengthen intercultural dialogue.

Tetouan is not just another Mediterranean city; it is a gateway to its very soul, a place where the past blends with the present, and where culture remains a driving force for innovation and dialogue. In 2026, alongside Matera, it will stand at the heart of a Mediterranean that tells its story, rediscovers itself, and connects with the world.