For the first time, 2 cities separated by a border are European Capital of Culture this year. On one side is Nova Gorica, built from scratch after World War II, when in 1947 the dividing border between Italy and Yugoslavia was drawn. On the other is Gorizia, a cultural, administrative, and economic centre with an ancient history being part of the Austro-Hungarian Empire for centuries. Called Görz the city was destroyed heavily in World War I with fierce battles on the Isonzo (Soca)-river.
The Capital of Culture year was officially opened with a ceremony in Nova Gorica’s railway station square on February 8th. The Presidents of Slovenia and Italy emphasised the historical significance of the joint project.
  For the first time in history, the European Capital of Culture brings together two cities, two countries and two peoples,’ said Slovenian President Nataša Pirc Musar. Nova Gorica and Gorizia are taking on the title of European Capital of Culture hand in hand as a unique region that is aware of its past, but above all bears responsibility for a common future, she emphasized. At a time when Europe and the world are at a crossroads of values, the past must not be forgotten when planning the future, she said.
Nova Gorica was built after 1947 under the rule of Yugoslav leader Tito as a socialist model city to impress the west with Italy just over the artificial border, sometimes cutting through farm houses. For decades crossing the border for people was made difficult. Smuggling took place in both directions.
  ‘Being the first cross-border European Capital of Culture means having the courage to be a bearer of light and faith in the future of the world at a time when shadows, uncertainties and fears are spreading,’ emphasised Italian President Sergio Mattarella.
  The shared square in front of the railway station in Nova Gorica – the Slovenians call it Trg Evrope (Europe Square), the Italians Piazza Transalpina – which used to be cut through by the border, has a symbolic meaning for both cities. On the occasion of the Capital of Culture year, the square was renovated to make it an inviting meeting place for the inhabitants of both sides. In 2004, Slovenia celebrated its accession to the EU on the square.
Over 400 events are planned throughout the Capital of Culture year. In Gorizia, an exhibition of works of Andy Warhol is now open in the old Palais Attems. The extensive programme includes concerts, exhibitions, festivals and theatre performances as well as culinary events and guided tours in both cities and the region. A ‘Peace March’ in the Isonzo Valley is also planned to mark the anniversary of the end of the Second World War. In June a congress of newspapers for minorities in Europe will take place.
  In addition to Nova Gorica and Gorizia, the German city of Chemnitz can also call itself European Capital of Culture this year. The opening ceremony took place there on 18 January.
Infos: https://www.go2025.eu/en
Otmar Lahodynsky
