Beijing designated as UNESCO-UIA World Capital of Architecture 2029

Beijing has been designated as the UNESCO-UIA (International Union of Architects) World Capital of Architecture 2029, UNESCO announced on Wednesday.

The designation followed the recommendation of the Joint Committee for the World Capital of Architecture.

Established jointly by UNESCO and UIA, the World Capital of Architecture program highlights the transformative role of architecture, urban planning, culture and heritage in advancing sustainable urban development. Every three years, UNESCO designates the host city of the UIA World Congress as the UNESCO-UIA World Capital of Architecture.

Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, became the first city to be designated the UNESCO-UIA World Capital of Architecture in 2020, followed by Copenhagen and Barcelona.

According to UNESCO, Beijing was selected for its "exceptional ability to bring together one of the world's richest architectural heritages with a forward-looking vision of sustainable urban development."

"Its historic urban fabric, successful regeneration projects and vibrant architectural culture demonstrate how heritage, innovation and community life can reinforce one another in shaping resilient and livable cities," UNESCO said in a press release.

UNESCO Director-General Khaled El-Enany was quoted in the press release saying that Beijing’s extraordinary architectural heritage, dynamic urban transformation and forward-looking vision would inspire new international dialogue on the power of architecture.

Under the theme "Back to Balance," Beijing will mount a series of exhibitions, conferences, educational forums, and public events throughout 2029, alongside its hosting of the UIA World Congress of Architects. The events will serve as a global platform for exploring architecture as a catalyst for cultural stewardship, symbiotic harmony between humanity and nature, and sustainable urban development.