Starting in 1985 with Athens, European Capital of Culture event has always been a highly popular and successful annual feature. As of the 2011 title, two cities in different Member States are twinned and they organise a variety of activities and events. The first European capital of culture was Athens, in 1985. Since then, the event has been such a success each year that the title is now highly prized. From 2011, two cities – from two different EU countries – will be European capitals of culture.The European capital of culture is a golden opportunity to show off Europe's cultural richness and diversity, and all the ties which link us together as Europeans. The event is so attractive that Europe's cities vie with each other fiercely for the honour of bearing the title.
For a number of years, the EU's Culture programme has helped finance the event, and will continue to do so in future. From 2012, there will be a new procedure for selecting future European capitals of culture.Cities wishing to become European capital of culture must prepare a cultural programme that meets rather specific criteria: it must reflect the European character of the event and involve the participation of the people who live there.The European flavour can be seen in the themes chosen and the artists and cultural organisers from different countries cooperating to put on the event. The programme must also have a lasting and sustainable impact on the city's long-term cultural, economic and social development. More information on: http://ec.europa.eu/culture/our-programmes-and-actions/