Lublin as a candidate for the title of European Capital of Culture 2016

Lublin is one of the Polish cities that are applying for the title of European Capital of Culture 2016.

This prestigious and important title is awarded every year to two cities of the Member States. In 2016 this title will be granted to cities from Spain and Poland. The cities will be designated in 2011.

Lublin is Europe’s gate to the East, the city of students and culture animators, the city where Lublin Union was signed, where different religions and cultures have coexisted for ages. What is more, Lublin Region is one of the most beautiful natural areas in Europe.

Lublin cultural heritage, the already big and still growing number of cultural events on offer, the flourishing academic life, and the character of Lublin Region make Lublin a city with great potential that should be realized as fully as possible. If we are awarded with the European Capital of Culture title, in 2016 Lublin will be presenting its cultural program in cooperation with partners from the East and West. It will be attracting tourists and artists. For a year, this city will be a huge European cultural center vibrant with life. It will be hosting concerts, festivals, conferences, shows, exhibitions, and other events.

The image of the city will benefit from this opportunity; Lublin will also become more well-known all around the world. The European Capital of Culture title will influence the development of culture, tourism and services. It will provide the impetus for the economic development of Lublin and the region. More funds will be allocated to culture, more funds from the European Union will be available, and moreover, the city will receive a financial reward. Lublin and its region will prosper, and the number of tallented students at Lublin universities will rise. The infrastructure will improve and the city will hold more attraction for investors.

However, to achieve success we need close cooperation between the city and the Lublin Region. The institutions and citizens of Lublin should join forces to fulfil a common goal.

The only way to win the the European Capital of Culture 2016 title is cooperation.