A beautiful historical city more than 600 years old, built on seven hills, just like Rome, Iași is a true cultural capital where many poets, writers, musicians, diplomats, and scientists have lived and created their work. No wonder Iași was named a UNESCO City of Literature, recognizing its rich literary heritage and the significant contributions of its writers to Romanian culture.
Today, Iași has emerged as a leading cultural and creative hub in Romania and Eastern Europe, blending a deep historical legacy with a vibrant contemporary arts scene. The city is home to major cultural landmarks such as the Palace of Culture, which houses four prominent museums, and the “Moldova” Philharmonic, a cornerstone of the classical music scene. Equally iconic is the Vasile Alecsandri National Theatre, the oldest national theatre in Romania, which stands as a testament to Iași’s enduring theatrical tradition and continues to play a vital role in the city’s artistic life.
The local cultural ecosystem is energized by flagship events like the International Festival of Literature and Translation (FILIT), the Youth Theatre Festival, and Romanian Creative Week, one of the most important creative industry events in the region. This annual festival gathers hundreds of artists, designers, architects, and entrepreneurs for a multidisciplinary program that includes exhibitions, performances, fashion shows, and discussions.
Beyond their cultural value, these initiatives have a strong educational dimension, offering young people access to meaningful artistic experiences, informal learning opportunities, and direct engagement with professionals across the creative industries. Cultural projects carried out in collaboration with schools, NGOs, and universities are helping to shape a new generation of creators, innovators, and cultural leaders. Iași’s active role in the UNESCO Creative Cities Network highlights its ongoing commitment to education, innovation, and sustainable development through culture.