Cittaslow – cities of good life
Fast pace of life constantly forces us to juggle work and household duties. You should stop for a moment and think about what really matters in life and is worth your attention. This postulate perfectly fits the idea of Cittaslow cities, whose numerous representation is located in Warmia and Masuria.
The Cittaslow International Network of Cities is often referred to as the network of ‘cities of good life’. The idea behind it originated from the Slow Food movement and was born in Italy in 1998. A year later, on the initiative of four Italian towns, the Cittaslow Association was established. The network welcomed the first Polish members in 2007, which also resulted in the creation of the Polish National Cittaslow Network. The symbol of the international movement is an orange snail, that reflects the idea of a peaceful life. It is all about focusing on quality, appreciating timeless values and carefully experiencing the surrounding reality.
Fot. Michał Misztal
The network may include cities with fewer than 50,000 inhabitants, which achieve the goals of the movement. Caring for the quality of life of their inhabitants is manifested in activities for the benefit of the local community and the natural environment, as well as maintaining the unique character of the urban space. The latter particularly assumes the concern for cultural heritage, historical heritage and identity.
Cittaslow cities promote local craftsmanship and cultivate traditions, including culinary ones. They are characterized by hospitality and willingness to share these values with tourists visiting them. At the same time, Cittaslow members are open to innovation and creativity – as far as the development planning is concerned, they include intelligent solutions and modern services for inhabitants and guests. The basis of their functioning are the principles of sustainable development, harmoniously combining respect for tradition with modernity and comfort of life. Above all, the Cittaslow cities are enclaves of peace, both for their inhabitants and tourists. They create friendly conditions for life, work and relaxation.
Nowadays, the movement includes over 260 cities from 30 countries from the whole world. In Poland, as many as 26 out of the 35 cities associated in Cittaslow are located in Warmia and Masuria. Members of the association are: Barczewo, Bartoszyce, Biskupiec, Bisztynek, Braniewo, Dobre Miasto, Działdowo, Gołdap, Górowo Iławeckie, Jeziorany, Lidzbark, Lidzbark Warmiński, Lubawa, Morąg, Nidzica, Nowe Miasto Lubawskie, Olecko, Olsztynek, Orneta, Pasym, Reszel, Ryn, Sępopol, Szczytno, Węgorzewo and Wydminy.
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