Between 14 and 15 April 2026, representatives of the MAG‑NET alliance took part in a study visit to the city of Nardò in Italy. The aim of the visit was to gain an in-depth understanding of urban challenges in southern Italy and to exchange good practices among cities.
The event was organised by the Municipality of Nardò, with the main part of the programme taking place at the historic Castello Acquaviva. During the meeting, discussions focused on the important role of culture and creativity in contemporary society, as well as on sustainable urban development. Participants also attended a presentation of the research phase of the MAG‑NET project and its methodology. The programme included several site visits: participants explored the historic city centre of Nardò, the municipal theatre, the public library and a commercial and artistic atelier, as well as a section of the Ciclonica – Salento Ionian Cycle Route. The cycle route is part of the Porto Selvaggio Natural Park and represents a good example of the development of sustainable mobility in tourism and the integration of natural and cultural heritage.
The study visit was attended by alliance members from Slovenia, urban innovation expert Eileen Crowley, expert on the transfer of good practices between European cities Annamaria Vrabie, and transfer partners from Košice (Slovakia) and Varaždin (Croatia). The meeting enabled a valuable international exchange of experiences and perspectives, as well as joint reflection on the further development and testing of pilot activities within the MAG‑NET alliance.
