OWHC Day - Organization of World Heritage Cities

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2024 Edition: 31st Day of OWHC Cities

Each year, September 8 is an occasion to celebrate the creation of the OWHC and to underline the commitment of member cities to work together to preserve the universal values of world heritage.

To make this date a special occasion and express pride in being part of the Organization, member cities are traditionally invited to organize activities and events that highlight the values of the OWHC and their actions in favor of heritage.

Since the 17^th World Congress (Cordoba, Spain, September 24-27, 2024) will focus on “habitability in historic centers”, the General Secretariat suggests that you place your activities in the perspective of the issues targeted by the Québec Roadmap, and in particular actions linked to the four main Strategic Axes:

Requalify the Habitat
Refresh the City
Transform Mobility
Regenerate the Urban Environment

Solidarity Day of World Heritage Cities

As the Organization of World Heritage Cities was created on a 8 September, it was decided, as a commemoration of this flagship event, that 8 September be declared “Solidarity Day of World Heritage Cities”. All World Heritage cities are invited to celebrate this day once a year.

Implementation of the Solidarity Day

Established in 1993, the Solidarity Day of World Heritage Cities is a unique opportunity to put heritage issues on the agenda and to express solidarity with World Heritage cities. With this celebration, we are shining the spotlight not only on the OWHC but also on the importance of being able to benefit from strong and present heritage cities.

This is why the OWHC encourages the administration of each member city to take advantage of this day to highlight the city’s important responsibility to protect and promote World Heritage and, above all, to stress the privilege of having a part of that heritage in their city.

Last year, on September 8, 2023, the World Heritage Cities proud of this title celebrated the 30^th Solidarity Day of the World Heritage Cities. At this occasion, member cities of the OWHC from all around the world underlined their outstanding universal value by organizing different activities that aim at highlighting their uniqueness.

2024 Edition

Kotor

For the 31st Day of OWHC Cities, the Museums of Kotor organized an exhibition featuring the lacework of Dobrota, titled “An old skill for a new era”, in front of Saint Tripun’s Cathedral. Participants in lace workshops gave public demonstrations, honoring this traditional craft. The event celebrated the city’s intangible cultural heritage in a warm atmosphere at the heart of the main square.

Québec

To mark the 31st Day of OWHC Cities, Québec City organized two significant activities. An outdoor exhibition titled “Curiosities of Old Quebec” was held at the entrance of Dufferin Terrace throughout September. Additionally, an artistic projection was arranged on the Bunge silos, illuminating the Old Port with images paying tribute to Québec’s historical heritage.

Granada

Granada celebrated the 31st Day of OWHC Cities with three days of festivities from September 6 to 8, under the theme “Habitability in Historic Centers.” Iconic sites hosted open houses, accompanied by concerts and film screenings. Highlights included the “Fiesta con la Orquesta Ciudad de Granada” concert and the screening of the film “Los Constructores de la Alhambra,” allowing residents and visitors to immerse themselves in the city’s rich cultural heritage.

Segovia

The city of Segovia marked the 31st Day of OWHC Cities by raising the OWHC flag on the Poets’ Garden mast throughout the weekend. An educational walk along the Eresma River was also organized on September 8, offering participants insights into the importance of green spaces in the city, especially concerning health, air quality, and well-being.

Krakow

Krakow celebrated the 31st Day of OWHC Cities by highlighting initiatives for greening historical public spaces and preparing for the 17th OWHC World Congress in Córdoba. Mayor Aleksander Miszalski delivered a special message, emphasizing the city’s historical heritage and Krakow’s commitment to its preservation. Special attention was given to the “Guidelines for the Management of Krakow’s Historic Center.”

Nessebar

The City of Nessebar and the Old Nessebar Museum offered visitors a free panoramic tour titled “Spiritual Path” in honor of the 31st Day of OWHC Cities. This guided route allowed participants to discover the city’s emblematic monuments, promoting the cultural richness of this World Heritage peninsula.

Morelia

On September 7, the city of Morelia celebrated the 31st Day of OWHC Cities with the second edition of the Intangible Cultural Heritage Festival at Rancho del Charro. This free event featured various activities such as charrería performances, musical shows, folk dances, and tastings of traditional Mexican food and mezcal, attracting over 2,500 attendees throughout the day.

Cidade Velha

Cidade Velha marked the 31st Day of OWHC Cities with the inauguration of the “Identidadi Mistisu” exhibition by artist Tchilac Furtado at the Cidade Velha Cultural Center. A cultural program with the “Tradison n’Alma” society was also organized to celebrate the city’s culture and heritage.

San Antonio

The 9th Annual World Heritage Festival took place in San Antonio from September 4 to 8, 2024. This collaborative event celebrated San Antonio Missions with biking, walking, and running tours around historical sites for residents. The festivities included music, local artists, food, and more!