At the seventh edition of the RO.ME Museum Exhibition, the international fair dedicated to institutions and businesses in the museum and cultural sectors, the Fondazione Santagata Award for UNESCO Designations 2024 was presented. Now in its fifth year, this award highlights exemplary sustainability practices within UNESCO territories, recognizing projects aligned with the United Nations 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.
The award was established to promote sustainable development initiatives that support UNESCO’s mission by helping preserve cultural heritage, fostering local community growth, and advancing culture with a focus on sustainability. The Fondazione Santagata Award is granted to projects distinguished within one of the five UNESCO designations: World Heritage, Intangible Cultural Heritage, Creative Cities, Biosphere Reserves, and Geoparks.
2024 Fondazione Santagata Award Winners
For the 2024 edition, the award celebrated two exemplary projects: Padova Urbs Picta and Casa Batllò. These sites have set themselves apart for their innovative and responsible approaches to managing their world heritage, contributing not only to the preservation and enhancement of cultural resources but also to the well-being of their local communities.
Padova Urbs Picta
The 14th-century fresco system was awarded in the national category for its dedication to the preservation and promotion of a remarkable cultural and artistic heritage. This project has emphasized sustainable tourism management and community awareness, solidifying Padova’s reputation as a model of excellence in heritage conservation.
Casa Batllò
This iconic UNESCO site in Barcelona, designed by architect Antoni Gaudí, received the award in the international category. With a focus on accessibility and sustainable innovation, Casa Batllò exemplifies how tourism can serve as a positive force, enriching the local social and cultural landscape while safeguarding its integrity.
These awards underscore the importance of an integrated and sustainable approach to cultural heritage management, one that addresses current challenges while creating a positive impact for future generations.