Idanha-a-Nova, located in Portugal’s Centro Region near the Spanish border, is a municipality where music is woven into the fabric of community and daily life. Its very emblem, two Adufe tambourines, reflects the deep significance of this traditional square drum, a symbol passed down through generations, especially by local women. The Adufe shapes both the city’s cultural expression and its storytelling: the annual magazine dedicated to Idanha-a-Nova’s heritage and musical history takes its name from the instrument, serving as a guide for residents and visitors eager to explore local traditions, festivals and artistic practices.
Over the last two decades, Idanha-a-Nova has become internationally recognised through the Boom Festival, one of the world’s largest independent music and arts gatherings. Every two years, more than 40,000 festival goers from over 150 countries descend on a sprawling 140-hectare site, transforming the region into a global cultural meeting point. With more than 800 performances, Boom is not only a celebration of electronic and experimental music but a showcase of environmental innovation, community-driven culture and creative exchange – principles that sit at the heart of Idanha-a-Nova’s UNESCO designation.
Music in Idanha-a-Nova is also a powerful driver of social cohesion. The 130-year-old Idanhense Brass Band remains a cornerstone of community life. Functioning as both a training centre and cultural institution, it brings people of all ages together to learn, rehearse and perform. Its work reinforces the city’s belief that participation in music can strengthen intergenerational dialogue, inclusivity and cultural pride. Civil society organisations further support this mission, collaborating closely with the municipality on music-centred projects and grassroots cultural planning.
Creativity is fully integrated into the municipality’s long-term strategies. In 2013, Idanha-a-Nova established the Incubator of Creative Industries, a pioneering initiative supporting artists, creative entrepreneurs and cultural producers. The incubator focuses on sustainable development, green innovation and cultural entrepreneurship, helping new ideas emerge and thrive. This commitment to nurturing talent and creative ecosystems aligns with the city’s broader vision as a UNESCO Creative City of Music.
As part of its ongoing UNESCO work, Idanha-a-Nova aims to harmonise music education across all levels, from schools to universities, and to promote inclusion through projects that engage senior women, young people and Romani communities. The city also prioritises international collaboration through programmes such as Portuguese Musical Fusion, designed to share musical knowledge, support artist mobility and strengthen ties across the UNESCO Creative Cities Network.
With its deep-rooted traditions, forward-looking creativity and globally connected festivals, Idanha-a-Nova stands as a vibrant example of how music can shape cultural identity, social progress and sustainable development.
Learn more about Idanha-a-Nova, City of Music.