Valori e Valutazioni.Teorie ed esperienze

Cultural vibrancy - i.e. the cultural liveliness of a city - is now recognised as a key factor in contemporary urban success, alongside innovation, education and infrastructure. This article examines the role of local cultural relations, particularly between associations and museums, in strengthening the cultural vibrancy of Padua. After reviewing the main theoretical references and international indicators on cultural vibrancy, the results of qualitative research conducted in Padua are presented. Through interviews with leaders of cultural associations active in the Arcella and Portello neighbourhoods and the analysis of collaborative initiatives between museums and the third sector, the potential and critical issues of interactions between institutional and grassroots cultural actors are highlighted. The results confirm that associations play a fundamental role in local animation and grassroots participation, while there are signs of openness on the part of museums towards co-design practices with the community. Collaborative governance approaches and proactive strategies to consolidate local cultural networks are discussed, with a view to creating a more inclusive, cohesive and sustainable, culturally vibrant city. The final discussion outlines operational recommendations for the Padua case, with possible ideas for generalisation to other medium-sized cities.