Bida

City of Crafts and Folk Art since 2021

City presentation

Bida City, situated in Niger State, Nigeria, is a member of UNESCO’s Creative Cities Network, recognized as a City of Crafts and Folk Art in 2021. Its rich cultural heritage dates back to the 11th century, encompassing various crafts such as glassmaking, iron and brass smithing, wood and raffia weaving, and traditional music and songs. These crafts are created using traditional methods and tools, reflecting the city’s deep-rooted cultural traditions. The major ethnic group in Bida is of Nupe descent, coexisting peacefully with other ethnic groups. Bida is renowned for its folk festivals, including the Durbar Festival and Nupe Day, showcasing its vibrant culture and heritage. Historically, Bida has been a center of trade in glass, brass, silver, and iron works since the 14th century, engaging with empires such as Mali, Songhai, Ashanti, and Kanem-Bornu.

As a leading city of crafts and folk art in Nigeria, Bida remains committed to preserving its cultural legacy through its vibrant festivals, traditional crafts, and historical landmarks.

Contacts

João Pessoa

City of Crafts and Folk Art since 2017

City presentation

João Pessoa is the capital of Paraíba, in the northeast of Brazil. The third oldest city in the country, founded in 1585, it is also known as the “Gateway to the Sun” because it is located on the easternmost point of the Americas. A UNESCO Creative City of Crafts and Folk Art since 2017, it has been implementing various initiatives aimed at incorporating the concepts of creativity and innovation, as well as the transversality of segments, fostering the local economy and meeting the commitments made when the municipality joined the UCCN.

Contacts