ISTANBUL: EUROPEAN CAPITAL OF CULTURE
Each year the European Union names a city the European Capital of Culture. Under this title, the city organizes a series of events which celebrates its cultural significance. It is an opportunity for the city to create cultural, social and economic benefits and generate urban transformation. The award allows for the city to be in the international limelight to raise its visibility and profile.
Istanbul was named the European Capital of Culture in 2010. The city was chosen for its rich history of different names, languages and reign. The city is known for the juxtaposition of ancient and modern, the religious and the secular and more importantly the bridge between Asia and Europe.
“Preparing for the Culture Capital title with the efforts of the Metropolitan Municipality, the Istanbul Governorship, and the 2010 European Culture Capital Coordination Board, the city has been transformed into a city of tourism with conventions, fairs, cultural events, art, and sports activities. Racing with the world’s renowned capital cities in these fields, Istanbul has leaped to the 17th position, up from 49, in tourist conventions in the last couple of years.”
