Carlo Conti to Step Down as Sanremo Festival Host, Bologna Crowned Italy’s True “City of Music”

As the 76th edition of the Sanremo Music Festival approaches, marking a significant transition with Carlo Conti’s final participation as host and artistic director, a parallel narrative emerges: the distinction between Sanremo as a celebrated event and Bologna as Italy’s officially recognized “City of Music.” The festival, scheduled from February 24 to 28, 2026, at the Teatro Ariston in Sanremo, Liguria, will feature 30 established artists [1].

A Changing of the Guard at Sanremo

Carlo Conti, a prominent figure in Italian television, announced his departure from the Sanremo Festival after the 2026 edition, bringing to a close a significant chapter in the festival’s history [1]. Having served as host and artistic director for five editions since 2020, Conti’s tenure has been marked by record ratings and a growing younger audience [3]. His involvement spans over 40 years with RAI [2]. The 2026 festival will be broadcast live on Rai 1 [1].

Beyond the Festival: Bologna’s UNESCO Recognition

Despite Sanremo’s immense popularity and cultural impact, the title of “City of Music” in Italy officially belongs to Bologna. UNESCO designated Bologna as a “Creative City of Music” in 2006, recognizing its rich musical history, international prestige and vibrant contemporary music scene [3]. This recognition acknowledges music as a central element of Bologna’s social fabric and culture.

A Legacy of Musical Excellence in Bologna

Bologna boasts legendary institutions such as the Martini Conservatory, where Gioachino Rossini studied, the Teatro Comunale, and the Philharmonic Academy, founded in 1666 [3]. The city has also fostered a renowned school of singer-songwriters, including Lucio Dalla, Gianni Morandi, Luca Carboni, Cesare Cremonini, and Samuele Bersani, alongside influential musicians like Francesco Guccini and Vasco Rossi [3].

Other Italian Cities Honored by UNESCO

While Bologna was the first Italian city to receive the UNESCO “Creative City of Music” designation, Pesaro followed in 2017, honoring the legacy of Gioacchino Rossini, and Bolzano was recognized in 2023 for its connection to the piano and the Busoni competition [3].

Sanremo’s Continued Significance

Despite not holding the official title, the Sanremo Music Festival remains a pivotal event in Italian music, attracting industry professionals, journalists, and fans alike. The festival’s success, however, does not supersede Bologna’s UNESCO-recognized status as the true “City of Music” in Italy.