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European Capital of Culture: Let's see who gets what from it


Linz / “Moi schaun, wer wos vom hod” (Let's see who gets what from it) sang the Upper Austrian band in the 2000s Rastafahna. The state capital Linz wanted to become the European Capital of Culture and has managed to expect it again. The title went 2009 to Linz. “That rhymes with province”, people in the cultural centers of Vienna, Salzburg and Munich blasphemed about the industrial and steel city in their midst. “Linz is changing”, the former European Capitals of Culture meanwhile confidently counter this. And Linz has changed: more culture, exciting new museums like the Ars Electronica, a “rush of high altitude” above the roofs of the old town and more.

Help with structural change

Since 1985 the European Union one and later two or three cities in the Union for one year each European Capital of Culture. In the beginning it was mainly well-known metropolises like Berlin or Lisbon, but now the title goes to little-known cities that are struggling with the legacy of their industrial heritage. The idea: international attention should help cities in structural change to become more socially and ecologically sustainable. In addition to cultural and social issues, the environment and climate have played an increasingly important role in programs over the past few years. 

sustainable urban development 

On October 28, 2020, the European jury will decide on the five German applications for the title of Capital of Culture 2025. Magdeburg, Chemnitz, Hildesheim, Nuremberg and Hanover are still in the running. In 2024 Bad Ischl and the Salzkammergut will be European Capital of Culture. People should get involved and help shape the future of their cities. The programs of the European Capitals of Culture offer opportunities for this. Expert Ulrich Fuchs, deputy director in Linz in 2009 and later head of the Marselle-Provence project in 2013, calls the Capital of Culture a “grant for sustainable urban development”. Then it depends what you make of it.

Read here are my stories from previous cultural capitals and here You will find my radio feature about Europe's cultural capitals to listen to.

Robert B Fishman, 20.10.2020 

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Written by Robert B Fishman

Freelance author, journalist, reporter (radio and print media), photographer, workshop trainer, moderator and tour guide

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