The list of four cities vying for the title of European Capital of Culture 2029 has been announced. Lublin, Katowice, Bielsko-Biała and Kołobrzeg are on the so-called shortlist
Previously, 12 cities had applied for the title of ECC 2029. In addition to the final four, candidates were considered: Bydgoszcz, Jastrzębie-Zdrój, Kielce, Opole, Płock, Pszczyna, Rzeszów and Toruń. Pre-selection talks with representatives of twelve cities were held in Warsaw on 24-26 October. Today, the final four have been announced
Lublin is in the final of the competition for the title of European Capital of Culture 2029. (…)There is a second stage of the competition and a lot of work ahead of us. We believe that receiving the title may strengthen Lublin’s position as an important cultural centre in Europe and open up new opportunities for cooperation and exchange of experience with other cities across the continent. In the process of applying for the European Capital of Culture title, Lublin will continue to support artists, work on the development of cultural infrastructure and innovative projects that promote international cooperation and cultural exchange, ” says Krzysztof Żuk, Mayor of the City of Lublin
The selection of the so-called shortlist was made by experts. These are ten people appointed by the European Parliament, the EU Council, the European Commission and the Committee of the Regions, as well as two specialists appointed by the Ministry of Culture and National Heritage
The cities that qualified for the final stage now have several months to complete their applications
We have it! A moment ago it was announced, which was very pleasant for all of us, that we are moving on to the second stage of our endeavour to become European Capital of Culture 2029. I will not conceal my great pride in Bielsko-Biała, its inhabitants and the great team of ECC2029. After half a year of very hard work, involving more than a thousand people, after many meetings, panel discussions and workshops, we can announce success. It would not have happened if it had not been for the cooperation with you dear Bielsko-Biała citizens. I am proud that you always actively participate in creating the fantastic cultural and historical heritage of our place on earth,” rejoiced the mayor of Bielsko-Biała, Jarosław Klimaszewski
The final selection of the ECC 2029 and the announcement of the winning city is scheduled for mid-2024. An expert panel will then reconvene and select one which will be the European Capital of Culture in 2029
source: UM Lublin, UM Bielsko-Biała
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