Marseilles named Europe's culture capital for 2013

[Darsh]

Tuesday 16 September 2008

The ancient Mediterranean sea port of Marseilles - today a bustling city of over 1 million inhabitants - has won the race to become the European Capital of Culture in 2013, beating fellow French rivals Bordeaux, Lyon and Toulouse.

The French city of Marseilles will be the European Capital of Culture in 2013, announced a beaming Jacques Pfister, president of the city’s campaign committee. France’s second-largest city saw off stiff domestic competition from Bordeaux, Lyon and Toulouse to secure the coveted nomination.


A historic city and major international port, Marseilles successfully showcased its Mediterranean routes, positioning itself as a bridge between Europe and the South.

“Today, the major cultural questions Europe is called on to address are eminently Mediterranean,” explained the campaign’s director Bernard Latarjet, citing immigration, clashes between different cultures and religions, gender relations and natural resources.


Backed by neighbouring towns in the Provence region, Marseilles presented an ambitious package featuring 74 artistic projects for a budget of 98 billion euros. The programme includes an eagerly awaited exhibition to mark the 100th anniversary of the birth of the famous writer Albert Camus.

http://www.france24.com/en/20080916-...ce&navi=FRANCE

[wilting]

I will die before Marseilles becomes the Capital of Culture!

Seriously though, why post this in the mudpit?

EDIT: Oh right, mediterranean political agenda. Snore.

[Erik]

Uhm... you did mean French cultural capital?

You said Europe.

[Azog 150]

We (Liverpool- the current capital of culture) just beat them 2-1

[VALIS]

In terms of contribution to world and European culture Liverpool beats the snotbox out of any French city.

The Beatles alone see to that.

[Fianóglach]

Go on Scousers! We all know you're the real cultural... people.

[Carach]

Marseilles isnt that great a city :/

and hell.. Liverpool's the current capital of culture so wtf.....they trying to improve the prestige of pikey towns?

[Strattios]

Other than the huge sum of money for the projects, what does that mean? I mean will they display all of Europes culture? What about historical? Is it going to be a cultural theme park were differnt parts of the town represent different European cultures? I don't think any one city can fully represent culture.