Gorizia and Nova Gorica share first cross-border European Capital of Culture title

Witnessing a momentous occasion, the presidents of Italy and Slovenia graced the official ceremonies to inaugurate the European Capital of Culture, jointly awarded to Gorizia and Nova Gorica.

In an unprecedented move, Gorizia in northeastern Italy and Nova Gorica in western Slovenia came together to share the esteemed title of European Capital of Culture for the year 2025.

The ceremony, attended by Italian president Sergio Mattarella and Slovenian president Nataša Pirc Musar, took place at Europe Square, featuring a day filled with GO!25 cultural events on both sides of the border.

This title holds significant symbolism for Gorizia and Nova Gorica, once part of the same town until 1947. The aftermath of World War II saw the division of Gorizia when the Treaty of Paris established new borders, restricting travel between Italy and the former Yugoslavia.

In his speech, President Mattarella emphasized the importance of cross-border cooperation and the shared EU membership between the two countries. He highlighted the significance of choosing cooperation in a world marked by conflicts and tensions.

President Pirc Musar, in her speech, underscored the historic nature of the event, celebrating it as a moment of peace, freedom, and friendship between the two nations.

The joint inauguration of the European Capital of Culture on Slovenian Cultural Day serves as a profound symbol of unity between the two cities and nations.

For a detailed schedule of the 400 cultural events planned throughout the year, visit the official website.