About Matosinhos
A Coastal City with a Vision for the Future
Matosinhos, located on the Portuguese coast, is a city that has long embraced the wealth of the sea, building an admirable culinary tradition. What sets it apart is its ability to harmonise this ancestral heritage with a contemporary vision, focused on sustainable practices. This fusion of gastronomic authenticity and ecological responsibility positions Matosinhos as a model for the future of gastronomy.
Recognised as the "Atlantic Gateway to Europe," Matosinhos offers a unique perspective to the UNESCO Creative Cities Network, thanks to its deep connection with the sea and its Lusophone identity. This duality enables the city to establish meaningful collaborations with other coastal and Portuguese-speaking cities, expanding the cultural and linguistic representation within the network.
Matosinhos’ entry into this international network marks a cultural and gastronomic milestone. Its rich culinary tradition, rooted in its proximity to the sea, brings a vibrant expression of Portuguese gastronomy to the global stage. Moreover, Matosinhos stands out as a beacon of sustainable innovation, with institutions such as CIIMAR leading research into ecological solutions for aquaculture, reinforcing the city's commitment to ocean preservation.
Beyond gastronomy, Matosinhos excels in fields such as literature, architecture, design, and music. This diversity strengthens its ability to foster multidisciplinary dialogues within the network, generating enriching cultural exchanges and a unique creative dynamism.