Annecy, affectionately called the “Venice of the Alps,” is a picturesque town located in the Haute-Savoie region of southeastern France. Nestled on the shores of the pristine Lake Annecy, the town is renowned for its canals weaving through the historic center, cobbled streets, and beautifully preserved medieval architecture.

Annecy: Una Città da Scoprire

• Historic Center (Vieille Ville): A maze of medieval alleys, charming canals, and picturesque bridges, lined with pastel-colored buildings and flower-adorned balconies that echo the charm of a small Venice.
• Palais de l’Isle: A 12th-century palace situated on an island in the middle of a canal, an iconic symbol of Annecy and one of the city’s most photographed landmarks.
• Annecy Castle (Château d’Annecy): A medieval fortress overlooking the town, once home to the Counts of Geneva. Today, it houses a museum showcasing local history and offers breathtaking views.
• Lake Annecy: Known as one of the cleanest lakes in Europe, it provides opportunities for water activities, peaceful walks along its shores, and stunning views, especially at sunset.

The Twin City Relationship Between Vicenza and Annecy

In 1995, the cities of Vicenza and Annecy formalized a twinning agreement aimed at fostering cultural, educational, and tourism exchanges between their communities. This partnership serves as a bridge between Italy and France, enriching both cities through shared projects and long-term collaboration.

Twin City Initiatives

The relationship between Vicenza and Annecy has led to numerous initiatives, including:

• School Exchanges: Programs designed for students from both cities, offering educational and cultural experiences abroad to foster understanding among younger generations.
• Cultural Projects: Collaborations in music, art, and environmental initiatives, with events held in both Vicenza and Annecy to promote intercultural dialogue.
• Environmental Initiatives: Joint efforts to raise awareness and protect the environment, engaging local institutions and citizens.
• Tourism and Promotion: Creation of themed routes and joint campaigns to highlight the historical and natural beauty of both cities, encouraging travelers to explore them.

A Lasting Cultural Bond

As the 30th anniversary of the twinning approaches in 2025, Vicenza and Annecy are developing new projects centered on culture, environment, and youth. Recently, a French delegation visited Vicenza to strengthen this collaboration, aiming to celebrate their long-standing friendship through shared events and initiatives.

The Meaning of the Twin City Partnership

Il gemellaggio tra Vicenza e Annecy rappresenta un valore aggiunto per entrambe le comunità, promuovendo:

• Intercultural Understanding: An ongoing dialogue that brings together two diverse yet complementary European realities.
• Educational and Youth Collaboration: Concrete opportunities for exchange and mutual learning.
• Tourism Development: Increased tourist flow, enhancing the cultural, historical, and natural attractions of both cities.

Annecy and Vicenza share not only a profound historical and cultural tradition but also a common vision for growth and the promotion of their treasures. This twinning continues to evolve, enriching both communities and strengthening the bond between Italy and France.