Italy / About the city
Introducing Alba
On October 31st, 2017 Alba was named UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy, becoming part of a network of cities in which creativity, in different areas, has improved living standards and boosted local economies.
Alba today is known across the world for its products of excellence, but the city doesn't forget that, just a few decades ago, these were the same "Malora" (run-down) hills described by Italian writer Beppe Fenoglio. For this reason, tradition and innovation have a different taste here, giving rise to a constant creativity that makes the area an increasingly coveted destination for visitors from around the world.
Part of the World Heritage Site of Langhe-Roero and Monferrato since 2014, with truffle hunting recognised as UNESCO Intangible Heritage since 2021, Alba will be Italian Capital of Contemporary Art in 2027 — a growing list of recognitions that underlines its attention to community and to the well-being of inhabitants and visitors.
/ Climate & gastronomy
Challenges and actions
In the region, the biggest challenges are the waste that needs to be disposed of after big events, climate change and rising temperatures affecting production and cultivation, and the threat to biodiversity. The area around the city is well known for wine production as well as truffles and nuts. Policy makers should explore farming in new areas higher up in the hills and focus on local production.
- Event waste for years the city has run specific waste collection initiatives for large events (International White Truffle Fair, Vinum Wine Festival, Collision Music Festival), with strong engagement from local inhabitants.
- Education many projects with children and young people focus on quality, biodiversity and tradition.
- Preserving the memory of the past the "Patriarchs of Gastronomy" project features interviews with prominent figures in the food and wine industry, published as a series of subtitled videos.
- Culture and climate as Italian Capital of Contemporary Art 2027, Alba is building a programme around the idea that culture can influence climate change.
