The title of European Capital of Culture celebrates Europe’s cultural richness, strengthens connections, and promotes the role of culture in urban development. The European Capital of Culture is not a beauty contest. The title has a broad societal impact, with culture serving as a driving force.
This year, Bodø (Norway), Bad Ischl (Austria), and Tartu (Estonia) are the proud holders of this title.
In 2030, one Belgian city, a city from Cyprus, and a city from an EU candidate country will hold the title. Ghent is a candidate, but other Belgian cities are still in the running. Currently, Kortrijk, Bruges, Brussels-Molenbeek, Leuven, and Namur are also in the preselection phase.
Belgian cities that have previously been European Capitals of Culture are Antwerp (1993), Brussels (2000), Bruges (2002), and Mons (2015).
Read more about the competition for the title on this Belgian website or visit the European pages.