The Cultural Capitals of Europe were created by the Ministers of Culture of the European Community. Athens became the first Cultural Capital of Europe in 1985.
The event was conceived in order to help bring together different cultures.
To be named as Cultural Capital of Europe represents an unparalleled opportunity to assert the city’s identity on the European cultural map, as well as generating important media and tourism interest.
After Lille, we will have to wait until 2013 before another French city has the honour of hosting the Cultural Capital of Europe.