1. European Capital of Culture
Starting in 1985 with Athens, European Capital of Culture event has always
been a highly popular and successful annual feature. As of the 2011 title, two
cities in different Member States are twinned and they organize a variety of
activities and events.
The first European capital of culture was Athens, in 1985. Since then, the
event has been such a success each year that the title is now highly prized.
From 2011, two cities – from two different EU countries – will be European
capitals of culture.
The European capital of culture is a golden opportunity to show off Europe's
cultural richness and diversity, and all the ties which link us together as
Europeans. The event is so attractive that Europe's cities vie with each other
fiercely for the honor of bearing the title.
For a number of years, the EU's Culture program has helped finance the
event, and will continue to do so in future. From 2012, there will be a new
procedure for selecting future European capitals of culture.
Developing the potential of the European capital of culture
A study carried out by an independent expert between 1995 and 2004 confirms the
positive media response to the event. It has improved the image of the chosen cities
in the eyes of their inhabitants and helped develop culture and tourism there. The EU
wants to see the forthcoming cultural capitals do yet more to encourage the long-
term impact on the cultural development of the cities and their environs. The new
procedure includes a key follow-up phase once the cities have been selected.
How cities are selected
Cities wishing to become European capital of culture must prepare a cultural program
that meets rather specific criteria: it must reflect the European character of the event
and involve the participation of the people who live there.
The European flavor can be seen in the themes chosen and the artists and cultural
organizers from different countries cooperating to put on the event. The program
must also have a lasting and sustainable impact on the city's long-term cultural,
economic and social development.