The first edition of the "International Biennial of Arts and Crafts" took place on September 4 and 5 at the Centre for Contemporary Culture of Castelo Branco, bringing together representatives from Portugal, Brazil, and Cape Verde. The initiative was part of the "Sabores de Perdição Festival" programming and falls within the context of Castelo Branco's integration into the "UNESCO Creative Cities Network," a status attributed in 2023 in the category of "Crafts and Folk Art." The Embroidery of Castelo Branco was the central element of the application that granted the municipality this international recognition.
In an interview with Agência Incomparáveis, the president of the Municipal Council of Castelo Branco, Leopoldo Rodrigues, argued that participation in the UNESCO network goes beyond the cultural dimension, highlighting its potential to generate economic activity, create opportunities for artisans, and project the territory internationally. The mayor stated that the global network allows for scaling local products and knowledge, opening doors to all continents.
The mayor framed the Biennial as an important moment to showcase local production and learn about methods, experiences, and practices from other territories, while also welcoming artisans from other cities and incorporating their knowledge. Leopoldo Rodrigues emphasized that the UNESCO seal implies commitments to preserving and transmitting knowledge, noting that the municipality has developed research, training, and promotion actions for the Embroidery of Castelo Branco, with visible results in the increase of orders at the Interpretation Centre.
Regarding the "Sabores de Perdição Festival," the municipal authority confirmed that this year's edition exclusively featured artists and agents from the region, encompassing musicians, actors, animation agents, and exhibitors linked to the gastronomy and crafts of the municipality and district. The program also included showcookings, a gastronomic route, and the stage of the JN/TSF Grand Prix cycling race. The organization of the Biennial was led by the Museums and Culture Division of the Municipal Council, directed by Sónia Abreu.
