Report by Ms. Paula Helena Santos, the Municipality of Évora, Portugal
This year, the Municipality of Evora joined thousands of voices around the world to mark the 80th anniversary of the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki.
As a proud member of the Mayors for Peace network, Evora took the opportunity of the city’s largest event the “Sao Joao Fair” to raise awareness about the urgent need for nuclear disarmament and the dangers atomic weapons continue to pose to humanity.
In a collective gesture of remembrance and hope, the Municipality created a moving installation titled “80 Years”, featuring hundreds of tsurus (origami cranes) made by local schools and community associations. These delicate symbols of peace were inspired by the story of Sadako Sasaki, a young victim of Hiroshima whose wish for life became a global symbol of peace.
The pavilion dedicated to this theme includes two panels: one marking the 80th anniversary of the bombings, and another sharing Evora’s ongoing work as part of the Mayors for Peace initiative.
To mark the opening of the fair, a symbolic and emotional moment took place: floating lanterns were released onto the small pond by the Mayor of Evora and local children, who also took part in a special performance celebrating the value of peace. This gesture served as a heartfelt appeal for a more peaceful world.
Photos: courtesy of the Municipality of Évora