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We also understand that the central region of the country will have to be the geographic area included for the event, as equally we are sure that Coimbra should be its natural, historic and socially inexorable epicentre.
Throughout three decades there have been many Capitals, and even more candidate cities that succumbed to the confined and reductive celebration of local culture, confusing a regional event, or even a national one, with a European event in the dimensions that it is imposed!
That’s why, the interpretation of the title European Capital of Culture must be, at least, literal, not being able to be confused with Regional Capital or even National. Just like in sport, where, in any European championship and whatever its modality may be, the best of each country will always be together, also in Culture, when it is about a European Capital, the celebration can only be plural, the diversity and richness of a global Europe being commemorated together, starting from a local host culture.
The way that Coimbra became European, historically and in different domains, left strong marks of a European identity in it. Conferring the value that it deserves to this relationship with the past, it is in the strength of the contemporaneous culture, in its richness and vitality, that we look for new ties and exchanges, through the promotion of partnerships between creators, partners, and cultural agents in general.
What is the motto of Coimbra 2027 – Candidacy to the European Capital of Culture 2027?
We want 2027 to be a turning point. An opportunity that we cannot miss. The reflection that is imposed on everyone. This candidacy is, from the first instance, inclusive, mobilizing and enthusiastic.
We will make public consultations in search of ideas that can make the difference and contribute to a better project. We will regularly realize the work in course, in meetings similar to this or through a route that can reach even more citizens. Make this candidacy yours.
It is up to us to leave Coimbra better than we found it and more similar to what we dream that it could be. We are all the culture. Those that we are, those that already left and those to come.
We can only reach victory with the enthusiasm of everyone. The European Capital of Culture 2027 will be the result of all of us. The reflection of dreams and worries that already occur to everyone. This is the moment to get practical and win.
For Portugal, we want to be the European Capital of Culture in 2027. The race has already started!