Every year, two European cities are awarded the title European Capital of Culture. For a whole year they organise a special cultural programme that shows the richness and diversity of European cultures. But it is about more than that one year. The road towards it matters too. It offers opportunities to strengthen the city and region culturally, socially and economically, and to make new connections.
In 2033 it is the Netherlands’ turn to provide a European Capital of Culture. Heerlen/Parkstad is going to put itself forward as a candidate for this title. If the bid succeeds, Heerlen/Parkstad may call itself European Capital of Culture in 2033 and carry out the programme.
City and region can develop further, both practically and strategically. Through the programme, resources are pooled and supplemented with investment from outside. The city and surrounding region, including towards Germany and Belgium, can put themselves on the map. European residents and partners can take part and share ideas, which strengthens the preparation, delivery and impact.
In the title year a cultural programme is carried out for, with and by the people. Governments, organisations, makers and volunteers work together, also with partners from across Europe. Themes and projects are developed during the candidacy phase.
City and region go through a development process together that leads to a programme with concrete projects. They work with residents and visitors on themes that are also relevant at European level.
Candidacy, preparation, title year and follow-up take 7 to 10 years on average. The title year itself lasts 1 year, or 12 months.
The aim is to highlight the richness and diversity of European cultures and to strengthen the ties between them. With it, the European Union wants to bring Europeans closer together and increase mutual understanding.
Since 1985, 84 cities have been awarded the title European Capital of Culture.
Experience from European Capitals of Culture has shown that it helps to think about each of the following questions when developing ideas:
How can we invite Europeans to work with us on what is typical of Heerlen, and on the things that shape our lives here?
European relevance: which subjects in your idea are also interesting for people elsewhere in Europe? What can they learn from us, or experience with us?
Electronic communication is an important part of a City of Culture. How can more people see your idea online and take part themselves?
Relevant to how people experience their daily lives: culture, art and creativity mean something different to everyone. What does your idea do for people’s everyday lives?
Learning, developing, building: what can we learn and build with your idea? How original is it, and what is new about it?
Earth: there is no second one. How do we make sure your idea makes the world more climate-friendly?
New connections: which new collaborations does your idea create, between people, organisations, neighbourhoods or sectors that have not yet found each other?
