Lucca welcomes Osuna

An institutional and cultural encounter through music

Lucca, April 29, 2025 – A meaningful and inspiring day marked the official visit of a delegation from Osuna, Andalusia, to the city of Lucca, as part of the cultural partnership established through the Virtuoso & Belcanto Festival, now celebrating its 10th anniversary.

The Spanish guests were warmly welcomed at Palazzo Orsetti by Luccas Mayor Mario Pardini, who personally guided them through the historic rooms of the City Hall. Alongside him was Councillor for Culture Mia Pisano, who highlighted the value of international cultural dialogue as a path toward cooperation, growth, and mutual understanding.

The delegation included:

  • Rosario Andújar Torrejón, Mayor of Osuna and President of the Fundación de Estudios Universitarios Francisco Maldonado
  • Brígida Pachón Martín, First Deputy Mayor
  • Carlos Chavarría Ortiz, General Director of the Foundation
  • Serafín Arriaza Vargas, Director of the Osuna Municipal Conservatory and Artistic Director of the Osuna & Virtuoso Festival

The visit was led and curated by Riccardo Cecchetti, founder and artistic director of the Virtuoso & Belcanto Festival, which has fostered strong international collaborations — including its other sister festival in Norway.

Later, the delegation visited the Birthplace of Giacomo Puccini, paying homage to one of the most iconic composers in world history.

This visit reinforced the significance of building cultural bridges through music and shared values, uniting cities, traditions, and communities across Europe.