Application to the Unesco Creative Cities Network

The city has been enhancing its territory through gastronomy, viewing it as a complete cycle of value. From food production and selection to the act of cooking, serving, and tasting, Matosinhos promotes a conscious approach that recognises the cultural, social, economic, and environmental impact of each stage.

This application reflects Matosinhos' resilience and determination to transform gastronomy into a driving force for creativity. With its passion for cuisine, commitment to ocean sustainability, and rich cultural tapestry, Matosinhos stands as a strong candidate to join the UNESCO Creative Cities Network, enriching it with its vision and innovation.

Established in 2004, the UNESCO Creative Cities Network (UCCN) fosters cooperation among cities that have identified creativity as a strategic factor for sustainable urban development. As the network expands, UNESCO aims to place creativity and cultural industries at the heart of urban development plans while promoting active collaboration between member cities.

Currently, the network includes 350 members from over 100 countries, covering eight creative fields: Architecture, Crafts and Folk Art, Design, Film, Gastronomy, Literature, Music, and Digital Arts. Within the field of Gastronomy, there are 56 member cities.

In Portugal, the Creative Cities Network includes Amarante, Idanha-a-Nova, and Leiria (Music); Óbidos (Literature); Barcelos, Caldas da Rainha, and Castelo Branco (Crafts and Folk Art); Braga (Digital Arts); Covilhã (Design); and Santa Maria da Feira (Gastronomy).