Nova Gorica and Gorizia Lead Europe’s First Borderless Cultural Celebration

Thursday, January 9, 2025

History will unfold in 2025 as Nova Gorica (Slovenia) and Gorizia (Italy) become the first-ever cross-border cities to jointly hold the prestigious European Capital of Culture (ECoC) title. Under the visionary slogan “GO! Borderless,” the region will shine as a beacon of European unity, breaking boundaries with a vibrant celebration of art, culture, and heritage.

With over 400 events in the official program and countless more in the accompanying schedule, the twin cities are set to transform 2025 into a cultural extravaganza. Significant investments in cross-border infrastructure and the creation of iconic cultural spaces, including a new amphitheater and a revitalized railway station, underscore the monumental efforts behind this unique collaboration.

A Year of Cultural Highlights

Four standout events define the year-long festivities:

• Grand Opening Ceremony (February): A spectacular kickoff featuring over 100 performers and creators.
• March for Europe (May): A simultaneous, symbolic march in multiple European cities, emphasizing unity.
• Tastes Without Borders (September): A culinary festival celebrating cross-border flavors and traditions.
• Enlightened Closing Ceremony (December): Mesmerizing light installations will illuminate the cities in a festive finale.

Visitors can immerse themselves in diverse experiences, from exploring smuggler trails and delving into the region’s war and peace narratives to engaging in eco-conscious activities and savoring cross-border cuisine.

A Vision Rooted in Four Pillars

Nova Gorica and Gorizia’s ECoC journey is shaped by four core pillars, each evolving into captivating themes:

1. War and Peace: Reflecting on the region’s history of conflict and reconciliation, this pillar features projects like the Walk of Peace, Zoran Mušič’s Dachau drawings, and initiatives such as Memory Ambulance & Archive Brigades.
2. Creation of the New: Inspired by visionary figures like Edvard Ravnikar and Franco Basaglia, this theme celebrates innovation in architecture, mental health, and the arts, culminating in groundbreaking works like Tomi Janežič’s Dodecalogy.
3. Smugglers: Highlighting cultural exchange, migration, and interconnectedness, this pillar features events such as the Complexity Festival, Borderless Body, and the Biennial of Young Creators of Europe and the Mediterranean.
4. Very Green: A tribute to the region’s natural beauty and commitment to sustainability, this pillar includes projects like ISOLABS, No Time to Waste, and the Atlas of Forgotten Orchards. The Soča River, with its emerald hue, serves as an enduring symbol of this green ethos.

Year-Long Events to Remember

• 8 February: A grand opening unites the cities with a symbolic procession between their railway stations.
• 1–9 May: The March for Europe transforms border crossings into art and unity symbols.
• 26–28 September: Tastes Without Borders brings a culinary celebration to life with artistic flair.
• 1–3 December: The Enlightened Closing Ceremony dazzles with captivating light displays.

Dive Deeper into the ECoC Experience

To explore this cultural milestone further, check out Noah Charney’s BBC article on the European Capital of Culture, which delves into the region’s remarkable journey. You can also tune into a special episode of Feel Slovenia: The Podcast for behind-the-scenes insights into Nova Gorica and Gorizia’s groundbreaking collaboration.

Join the Celebration

Nova Gorica and Gorizia warmly invite the world to witness a historic year of culture, unity, and creativity. In 2025, these cities won’t just celebrate their shared heritage—they’ll redefine what it means to go borderless.

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