Crema and Melun Celebrate 25 Years of Twinning with Carnival Festivities

Crema, Italy – A weekend of celebrations marked the 25th anniversary of the twinning between Crema and Melun, France, culminating in a vibrant display during the Gran Carnevale Cremasco. The festivities, organized by the Crema association “I Pantelù,” saw delegations from both cities come together to reaffirm their longstanding friendship.

A Historic Partnership

The twinning between Crema and Melun officially began in 2000, fostering cultural and economic ties between the two communities. The relationship is rooted in shared traditions, particularly in the cheese-making industry – Crema is known for its Salva Cremasco, while Melun is famous for Brie.

Weekend of Events

The French delegation, led by Véronique Béguin, representing the city of Melun, and a delegation from Stuttgart, Germany, arrived in Crema on Saturday. They participated in a welcome dinner hosted by “I Pantelù” at the Guadalcanal restaurant, attended by members of the Crema municipal council. A poignant moment during the dinner was the presentation of parchments designed by the late Renato Stanghellini, a key figure in fostering the relationship between Crema and Melun.

Delegations paid their respects to Renato Stanghellini with a visit to the cemetery, followed by an official ceremony in the reception room at Crema’s town hall. Mayor Fabio Bergamaschi emphasized the importance of continuing Stanghellini’s legacy and maintaining the strong bond between the two cities. “We remember Renato who was a lot for this city and all the energy he position into play to produce it contagious. He handed us a witness that we will continue with responsibility,” stated Mayor Bergamaschi.

Carnival Celebration and Remembrance

Véronique Béguin, reflecting on her long-standing connection to Crema, shared that her first visit was 25 years ago and expressed her hope to return for the 50th anniversary of the twinning. She too honored the memory of Renato Stanghellini, stating, “Volevo augurarvi un super Carnevale… And to salute and honor the memory of Renato Stanghellini.”

The celebrations continued with the Cremasco Carnival parade, where “I Pantelù” distributed 2,000 chocolate hearts wrapped in tulle, 3,000 loose hearts, and confetti to the crowds. The visit concluded with a shared pizza dinner at Pepe Verde in Ombriano.

Strengthening European Ties

Francesco Bianchessi, president of Pantelù, highlighted the significance of the twinning in strengthening relationships between European countries. The association expressed its commitment to continuing Stanghellini’s vision and fostering a lasting friendship between Crema and Melun.

Véronique Béguin, president of the association managing the twinning in Melun, expressed her satisfaction with how the partnership is managed in Crema, noting that it has “found fertile ground in the municipal administration, which continues to keep the twinning alive.”