The European Capital of Culture is the most important cultural institution of Europe and one of the most prestigious cultural events in the world. Τhe award of this title is a great tribute for any European city and country.

The European Capital of Culture is a title designated by the European Union for a period of one year during which a city is given the opportunity to highlight the importance of cultural development, to involve citizens and creators in this process and to promote European cultural identity.

The European Capital of Culture Programme was launched in 1985 and by 2019 the title will be awarded to 60 cities in 30 countries. The Project has become a key platform for city positioning and a catalyst for economic and cultural regeneration. This prestigious title has developed a significant audience in both Europe and across the world.

It is a high level cultural project that is monitored by the European Commission so that its programme content is maintained to the highest standards.
The impact of the Project can be evaluated through the change that is stimulated through cultural and social capacity building, by infrastructure improvements and cultural venue development, but also by the economic impact from the upsurge of visitors to the city.

The implementation path of a European Capital of Culture has turned into a model followed by many European cities seeking cultural growth and image change. The European Capitals of Culture have become a popular destination, while the variety and the quality of their cultural programme acts as an important catalyst for cultural tourism.

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