What is the European Capital of Culture (ECOC)?
The European Capital of Culture (ECoC) title was launched in 1985 on the initiative of Melina Mercouri and has since become one of the most prestigious and high-profile cultural events/ institutions in Europe. It celebrates the richness and diversity of European cultures and fosters dialogue, creativity, and collaboration, strengthening cultural ties across Europe and leaving a significant legacy in the selected cities. Over the years, the initiative has contributed to the sustainable development of cities and their surrounding areas, bringing a long-term impact in cultural, social, and economic terms.
By becoming the European Capital of Culture 2030, Nicosia hopes to join an ECoC family of over 80 European cities that shall have held the title by 2030, ranging from Athens (1985), the first ECOC, to Pafos (2017), Cyprus’ first ECOC. If successful, in 2030 the Nicosia District shall not be celebrating alone, as the title of European Capital of Culture shall be hosted together with a city from Belgium and Montenegro.