"The starting assumption of this project is that creativity can act as a driving force for the territorial and economic development of rural areas and small urban centers, combating desertification and exodus to large and developed cities (according to the United Nations, the urban population reached 50% of the total world population in 2007). Thus, the presence and role of creative clusters and talents in low density zones need to be both more widely acknowledged and better understood in order to pursue innovation policies and strategies aimed at developing small economies.

Local/municipal public policies have a role to fulfill, promoting strategies oriented to: attraction and retention of the creative class (talent); enhancement of creative entrepreneurship; promotion of creative industries; creation of artistic and cultural facilities and infrastructures (museums, art galleries, bars and thematic restaurants, specialized schools, creative incubators, creative housing, etc); launching of events, fairs, exhibitions and workshops related with creative industries; promotion of creative urban regeneration (rehabilitation of old buildings and urban areas, for example) instead of urban expansion; etc.

In recent years Óbidos has developed strong actions regarding cultural and creative clusters. Its strategy is based on empowering its competitiveness as a small scale rural town in contrast to the massive urban model towards a creative community.

This romantic, medieval town (classified as national monument) and its surroundings are embedded in an inspired and vibrant environment which fosters creativity and innovation. Following this, several artistic and cultural initiatives (events, activities, and infrastructures) have been implemented, attracting numerous artists, researchers, entrepreneurs and tourists from all over the world. Furthermore, the municipality is launching several projects related with creative housing, an arts incubator, a design centre, etc.”