The Centre is a Cultural Association founded in 1945, during Salazarism, as a meeting space for dialogue between the different political and ideological sectors in defence of a free and pluri-disciplinary culture. Since April 25, 1974, the CNC has striven to transmit the notion of culture without borders, whether disciplinary or geographic. It seeks to connect those who otherwise might not cross each other’s paths: old and young, artists and businesspeople, public and private sectors. A large part of the centre’s activities is dedicated to the defence of Portuguese cultural heritage, the diffusion of the role Portuguese culture has played throughout the world, and the updating of its relationship with other cultures. This is done through expositions, publications, certification courses, cultural research trips, and colloquia. In addition to the activities directed to the greater public, the CNC organizes children’s workshops, training activities for youth, teachers and cultural tourism guides, and promotes free courses that comprise the most diverse areas and that provide cultural services to associations, companies, autarkies, and public organizations. The European dimension has been attaining an increasing weight in the CNC, which develops projects in conjunction with other European countries and hosts foreign interns and artists throughout the year. www.cnc.pt