The 60th ISOCARP World Planning Congress – Reinventing the (In)Visible Cities, will be held in the historic Italian city of Siena, from the 8th to 12th October 2024. This will be the highlight event of this special year and part of ISOCARP’s 60th World Planning Congress Diamond Anniversary Series, celebrating 60 years of congresses.
Siena, with its rich tapestry of history, commitment to innovation, and dedication to heritage preservation, serves as a living embodiment of the theme “Reinventing The (In)Visible Cities.” As the place where Calvino spent his last day sand a shining example of good governance depicted in Lorenzetti’s frescoes, Siena offers an unparalleled setting for exploring the intersection of tradition and progress. Its UNESCO-listed center, anchored by the iconic Piazza del Campo, provides a scenic canvas for envisioning the cities of tomorrow, while the treasures housed within the Duomo showcase the city’s enduring excellence. Siena’s pioneering spirit is evident in its historic contributions to walkability and banking, showcasing a legacy of urban innovation that continues to shape its identity. As a vital stop along the historic Via Francigena pilgrimage route and home to the vibrant Palio horse race, Siena exemplifies the power of connection and tradition. Symbolizing transformation, the Santa Maria della Scala reflects ISOCARP’s mission to bridge past and future, providing a fitting venue for discussions on urban resilience and innovation.
Under the banner of “Reinventing the (In)Visible Cities: From Heritage to Innovation, Forging Pathways to Resilience,” the congress held within Siena’s historic walls seeks to chart a course towards sustainable urban development. Inspired by Calvino’s visionary work in “Invisible Cities,” delegates are encouraged to imagine the unseen and strive for urban utopia. By reimagining city planning and design to accommodate innovation in all fields, we honour Siena’s unique historical significance and focus on topics such as urban regeneration, leveraging cultural heritage for sustainable development, and combating climate change. As we gather within Siena’s timeless embrace, we embark on a journey to revitalize our cities, dismantle systemic inequalities, and create a sustainable urban legacy for generations to come. Through collective vision and shared commitment, we embrace the challenge of reinventing our cities to meet the needs of the present while preserving the essence of our past.