Creative Cities Network
UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization) Creative Cities Network is a global initiative launched in 2004. The network aims to promote cooperation among cities that have identified creativity as a strategic factor for sustainable urban development. Cities that join the network are recognized for their efforts in placing creativity and cultural industries at the heart of their development plans.
The UNESCO Creative Cities Network encompasses seven creative fields:
1. Crafts & Folk Art
2. Design
3. Film
4. Gastronomy
5. Literature
6. Media Arts
7. Music
Cities within these fields collaborate and exchange experiences, knowledge, and best practices to harness the power of culture and creativity for sustainable development. Each city within the network develops its own unique plan based on its strengths and aspirations within its chosen creative field.
The Creative City plan typically involves various initiatives such as:
1. Promoting cultural diversity and inclusiveness.
2. Supporting local artists and creative industries.
3. Fostering innovation and entrepreneurship within the creative sector.
4. Revitalizing urban areas through cultural initiatives.
5. Enhancing cultural heritage preservation and promotion.
6. Facilitating cultural exchanges and cooperation at the international level.
Overall, the UNESCO Creative Cities Network serves as a platform for cities to share experiences, learn from one another, and collaborate to harness the transformative power of culture and creativity for sustainable urban development.
Iranian Creative Cities
As of my last update in January 2022, Iran has several cities that have been designated as part of the UNESCO Creative Cities Network. These cities have been recognized for their contributions to various creative fields. Here are some of them:
1. Isfahan – Design: Isfahan is known for its rich cultural heritage, including its architecture, handicrafts, and urban planning. It has been designated as a UNESCO Creative City of Design in recognition of its efforts to promote design as a driver of sustainable development.
2. Rasht – Gastronomy: Rasht, the capital of Gilan Province, is renowned for its diverse culinary traditions and rich gastronomic culture. It has been recognized as a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy for its efforts to promote food culture, sustainable agriculture, and culinary innovation.
3. Hamadan – Crafts and Folk Art: Hamadan, one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, has a long tradition of craftsmanship and folk art. It has been designated as a UNESCO Creative City of Crafts and Folk Art in recognition of its efforts to preserve and promote traditional crafts, such as carpet weaving, pottery, and metalwork.
These cities, among others in Iran, play a crucial role in promoting cultural diversity, creativity, and sustainable development both within the country and on the global stage through their participation in the UNESCO Creative Cities Network.
Modern Med Tour(MMT) provides the best opportunity to visit creative cities in Iran for international tourists from all over the world.
