Since 1985, the European Union has been naming European Capitals of Culture every year to promote European cultural wealth and diversity, as well as international support and cooperation. In this way, cities such as Paris, London, Madrid or Rome are not the only alternatives that exist as possibilities for tourists’ next itinerary. This initiative encourages the discovery of hidden treasures, new traditional stories to tell and more of the world to discover, in this case in Europe.
The capitals of the coming year 2025 have already been named : the city and surrounding region of Chemnitz (Germany), a territory reborn from its industrial ashes; and the twin cities of Nova Gorica and Gorizia , which straddle the border between Slovenia and Italy, creating a most interesting and curious mixed culture.
As travel becomes more about authentic experiences, these lesser-known cities offer the chance to explore beyond the typical European tourist hubs. Dare to discover Europe’s best-kept secrets.
Chemnitz, Germany: The city in constant rebirth
In the heart of Saxony lies the city known as the “ Saxon Manchester ” because of its role in the Industrial Revolution . Defined by its industrial past, it was severely damaged and affected during the Second World War, then transformed under East German rule . A story of constant rebirth.
The city and region of Zwickau have been essential to Germany’s industrial growth, with a strong presence in the textile, railway and automotive sectors , driven also by mining in the Ore Mountains . This mining region has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2019. Its history is represented in its museums, medieval castles and Baroque and Renaissance architecture, while Chemnitz’s narrative highlights its Art Nouveau buildings and Karl Marx monument .
Chemnitz’s cultural wealth and inclusive, democratic and cosmopolitan vision of the future will be revealed to its future tourists in 2025 through creative spaces, the Purple Trail , which connects 38 municipalities through art and sculpture, festivals, exhibitions and indie music.
Nova Gorica and Gorizia: a celebration without borders
The decision to choose both cities, one in Slovenia (Nova Gorica) and the other in Italy (Gorizia) symbolises a celebration of diversity based on a border, which only divides territories, not cultures. Both cities share a common history, so why not name them both at the same time? Although in theory it sounds complex, the history they share places each one on one side of the so-called Iron Curtain during the Cold War , but today they represent a model of European integration.
This cross-border project will unite two nations and diverse cultures in a spectacular natural setting, surrounded by the Soča River Valley and the Julian Alps. Artist Tijana Boric , an ambassador of the event, highlights the cultural diversity in Nova Gorica, where Serbian, Slovenian and Italian languages and traditions coexist . This cultural mosaic will be reflected in multimedia art and performances in natural settings, along with workshops focusing on technology and creativity.
Ecology is a very important factor in this shared cross-border personality, translated into green corridors and spaces for biodiversity.
The cultural offering will be completed with culinary events such as Flavours without Borders , an experience that will unite Slovenian and Italian cuisine, highlighting the gastronomic richness and cultural fusion of this unique region in Europe.
